On January 20, an inquest in Germany found that Pope Benedict knew about priests who abused children but failed to act.

Now, cases against the Catholic Church over child sex abuse are growing in the United States.

Pope Francis has promised “decisive action” on the issue and encouraged the reporting of allegations.

But survivors’ advocates allege that the church and its lobbyists oppose legislation that could allow more victims to come forward, and fight against the disclosure of important documents.