In what could be a foretaste of his expected encyclical on Catholic social teaching, Pope Benedict XVI yesterday called for a “global model of authentic solidarity.”

“It is only through a common commitment to sharing that it is possible to respond to the great challenge of our time: that of building up a world of peace and justice in which every man can live with dignity,” the pope said.

“This can happen if a global model of authentic solidarity prevails, one that is able to assure all the inhabitants of the planet food, water, necessary medicines, and also work and energy resources, as well as cultural goods and scientific and technological knowledge.”

The words recall Benedict’s call this past September for a “logic of sharing and solidarity,” which he said would lead to “fair and sustainable development.”

This time, however, there was no denunciation of that “logic of profit” which “increases inequality between rich and poor and a ruinous exploitation of the planet.”

We may have to wait for the encyclical, expected within the next few months, for more on that score.