Pope Benedict XVI's new encyclical to come out next week

Pope Benedict XVI's will send his second encyclical next week.

An encyclical is the most authoritative document a pope can issue. Vatican officials said the latest one will explore the theme of hope.

Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the pope's top aide, told reporters the encyclical would be signed by Benedict on Nov. 30.

Benedict's first encyclical focused on what he has said is the core of Christian faith: love. It was released in January 2006, nine months after he was elected pontiff.