Does Pope Benedict Condemn Capitalism?

Major news services have reported that Pope Benedict XVI blasts capitalism for its "cruelty." But what does the Pope really think?

Socialism cannot save the poor. It produces "economic and ecological destruction." Its view of human history is contrary to the human heart. It tries to build a heavenly kingdom in this world.
Faith should not be politicized. Justice for the poor does not depend on a theology of ever more power for the state.

These are the views of Pope Benedict, as summarized by Father Sirico, a Catholic priest, in the pages of the Wall Street Journal Europe.

Father Sirico is the founder and President of the Acton Institute.

Image property of Walter O. LeCroy