Pope Benedict's second encyclical due by Christmas

Pope Benedict has finalised his second encyclical on the subject of Christian hope, and it is expected to be released in time for Christmas.

Catholic News Agency reports this second encyclical has been tentatively titled Spe Salvi (Saved by Hope), and follows the first Deus Caritas est was signed on Christmas Day 2005.

Italian newspaper La Repubblica says Pope Benedict drew inspiration from St. Paul’s letter to the Romans.

The potential title comes from the 24th verse of the eighth chapter of St Paul's letter, which reads: "Because we have been saved by hope."

The hope of the Holy Father, the newspaper reported, is to "reach the hearts of Christians and invite them to have hope, without being thrashed by pessimism."

The document will be translated into several languages and could be signed by the Holy Father on 8 December, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and the anniversary of the close of Vatican II.