AC--
Thanks for the clarification on Cardinal Ratzinger vis-a-vis his membership in the Hitler Youth.
http://www.ratzingerfanclub.com/Ratzinger_faq.html
If one were to scan the list of less than illustrious Popes whom God has chosen to lead His Church without blowing the Deposit of Faith, I know FAR more egregious "facts" would be unearthed on many of them.
As for "Maximus" being a Germanic name, it is, in fact, Latin. St. Maximus was a Roman soldier who died for his faith along with a companion in the 230 AD time frame. In researching the number of saints named "Maximus", I was stunned as to their variety and number.
The name Maximus came to mind from the recent movie, Gladiator, in which the protagonist is named Maximus Desmas Meridius.
Our Chef would do well to consider Cardinal Arinze of Nigeria (mentioned above) and other wonderful African Cardinals (including the Cardinal from the Sudan who has fought for 25 years against the decimation of his people by Muslims). These two are magnificent candidates although the latter is not touted highly to my knowledge.
Frank
I like 'Maximus' just fine but it might be a little bit to 'in your face' of a name. ;-)
I'd like it if a guy like Ratzinger chose it but I don't think I'd like it much if a guy like Mahony chose it.