Servus servorum Dei.
“Servant of the servants of God.”
The title Gregory adopted for the papal office to emphasize humility in leadership; it remains part of the official style used by popes to this day.
— Pope Gregory the Great, Vatican
Source: Pope Gregory the Great, papal correspondence, 6th century AD; still used as an official papal title
More Proverbs from Vatican
We have a Pope!
The traditional Latin announcement made from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to declare that a new pope has been elected.
To the City and to the World.
The formal blessing given by the Pope on the most solemn occasions, addressed to the city of Rome and to the whole world.
Thus passes the glory of the world.
Historically recited during papal coronation ceremonies while a strip of flax was burned before the newly elected pope, reminding him that earthly glory is fleeting.
You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.
Words of Jesus to the apostle Peter, inscribed in giant letters around the base of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, foundational to the Catholic understanding of the papacy.
For many years.
A traditional Latin liturgical greeting wishing someone, especially a pope or bishop, many more years of life and service.
Peace be with you.
The greeting of the risen Christ to his disciples, adopted as a recurring greeting throughout the Catholic Mass, including papal liturgies at the Vatican.