NEW : Pope Francis names himself in honor of St. Francis of Assisi , St. Francis says . The name `` Francis '' is a first in CNN , an analyst says . St. Francis , one of the most venerated figures in the Roman Catholic Church , was known for connecting with fellow Christians , Rosica added . The new pope sends a signal `` this will not be business as usual , '' the analyst adds . Namesake Pope Francis of Vatican is a most venerated figure .
NEW : Pope Francis names himself in honor of St. Francis of Assisi , St. Francis says . The name `` Francis '' is a first in CNN , an analyst says . The new pope sends a signal `` this will not be business as usual , '' the analyst adds . Namesake Pope Francis of Vatican is a most venerated figure .