Hannah Brockhaus

Hannah Brockhaus

Hannah Brockhaus is Catholic News Agency’s senior Vatican correspondent. After growing up in Omaha, Nebraska, she earned a degree in English from Truman State University in Missouri. In 2016, she moved to Rome, Italy, where in her spare time she enjoys reading and going on adventures with her husband and son.

Articles by Hannah Brockhaus

Pope visits young children from difficult family situations

Oct 14, 2016 / 09:08 am

On Friday Pope Francis visited with young children at the “SOS Village” in Rome, a community made up of homes for children who are in positions of family or social hardship, as recommended by social services.

Pope Francis donates $100,000 to Haiti for hurricane relief

Oct 14, 2016 / 04:55 am

Pope Francis has decided to send an initial contribution of $100,000 to Haiti to help with emergency recovery in the wake of Hurricane Matthew, the Vatican announced Friday.

All Christians must follow Jesus closely, Pope Francis tells Lutherans

Oct 13, 2016 / 09:42 am

On Thursday, asked about what he likes and doesn’t like in the Lutheran ecclesial community, Pope Francis said he likes Lutherans who are active followers of Christ, while he dislikes Christians who are hypocritical or who have a lukewarm faith.

Cardinal Parolin visits Fatima ahead of Pope's trip

Oct 12, 2016 / 20:49 pm

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, is traveling to Fatima, Portugal ahead of Pope Francis’ own visit, which will take place next year for the 100-year anniversary of Mary’s appearance there.  

Pope pleads for ceasefire amid 'inhuman conflict' in Syria

Oct 12, 2016 / 03:36 am

On Wednesday, Pope Francis begged for an end to the terrible conflict in Syria, asking for an immediate ceasefire to allow the evacuation of civilians, especially children.

How do we evangelize the Americas?

Oct 10, 2016 / 23:02 pm

As society becomes increasingly global, the question of how to spread the Gospel, particularly in the U.S., depends more and more on how effectively we engage with the varying cultures around us  – just as the many missionaries to America did before, say Catholic leaders.

In service, conversion of heart is the first step, says Pope Francis

Oct 10, 2016 / 10:40 am

In this transitory and often difficult life, it is necessary to have Christ as the center of everything you do, working to increase your own faith in Jesus and the faith of those you serve, Pope Francis said Monday.

Charity is the heart of all missionary action, Pope Francis says

Oct 7, 2016 / 06:59 am

After electing their new General Superior, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate had a meeting with Pope Francis, who told them that in the midst of a rapidly changing world, humanity needs missionaries filled love and zeal for the Gospel.  

Youth, discernment Pope's pick for next synod theme

Oct 6, 2016 / 08:00 am

The theme for the 2018 Synod of Bishops has been released, and will focus on how to best teach the faith to young people and help them to discern God's will for their lives.

Who benefits from sports? Everyone, Pope Francis says

Oct 5, 2016 / 12:40 pm

The beauty and joy found in sports, whether playing or watching, is something that benefits and unites everyone, regardless of religion, ethnic group, nationality, or disability, Pope Francis said Wednesday.

The Church must be close to Caucasus nations, Pope Francis says

Oct 5, 2016 / 05:05 am

On Wednesday Pope Francis gave a recap of his recent trip to Georgia and Azerbaijan, noting how this year both nations will celebrate the 25th anniversary of their independence from the Soviet regime.

Pope Francis says religious harmony in Azerbaijan must continue

Oct 2, 2016 / 06:20 am

In a meeting with political leaders Sunday, Pope Francis praised the peaceful relationship among Catholics, Muslims, Orthodox, and Jews in Azerbaijan, criticizing those who use God as a defense in religiously-motivated violence.

Disabled youth perform special dance for Pope Francis in Georgia

Oct 1, 2016 / 07:54 am

Pope Francis was treated to a special presentation Saturday when young people, including several disabled youth in wheelchairs, performed traditional dances for him during his papal visit to Georgia Saturday.

Pope to Georgian Catholics: imitate St. Therese's 'little way'

Oct 1, 2016 / 00:52 am

It’s important to follow the example of St. Therese's “little way,” trusting in God and his consolation with the faith a small child, Pope Francis said Saturday, which marked the feast of the young saint and Doctor of the Church.

Pope Francis to Georgian Orthodox: Christ's love unites us

Sep 30, 2016 / 07:42 am

God's love and our unity in Christ are what enable us to overcome conflict and disagreement, and to spread the Gospel – which is what bears spiritual and artistic fruit, Pope Francis said in Georgia on Friday.

Spreading hope, trust, the center of next World Communications Day

Sep 29, 2016 / 07:10 am

Announced Thursday, this year's World Day of Social Communications will focus on the theme of spreading hope and trust in the “Good News” of Jesus Christ and salvation.

Memory of Shimon Peres should inspire peace efforts, Pope says

Sep 28, 2016 / 07:57 am

Upon learning about the death of Shimon Peres Wednesday, Pope Francis sent a telegram offering his condolences and his appreciation for the former president of Israel's tireless efforts for peace and the common good.

From homeless to meeting the Pope – a story of inspiration

Sep 27, 2016 / 15:33 pm

Tanya Cangelosi never imagined that she would one day be bringing homeless people on pilgrimages to Rome. And Shyla Montoya never thought that she would someday go on a pilgrimage to Rome.

Pope Francis: Feeling hopeless? Don't drink - pray!

Sep 27, 2016 / 13:32 pm

Feelings of spiritual desolation, or a lack of will to live, should be combated with prayer, not with sleeping pills or alcohol – things that only distract us from the problem – Pope Francis said Tuesday.

Pope Francis: The truth can't be forced on people

Sep 25, 2016 / 06:33 am

God is shared with the world through love and authentic relationships, not by forcing the truth on people, Pope Francis said Sunday.