Michigan Catholic Conference spokesman David Maluchnik confirmed Tuesday that extending the statute of limitations is "of concern" to the church's lobbying arm.

Pope Francis and his international Council of Cardinals discussed the possibility of establishing regional tribunals around the world that would judge cases of sexual abuse allegedly committed by clergy.

The victims gave their testimony to another official after the original Vatican envoy had emergency surgery.

Scicluna entered the hospital Tuesday after beginning his interviews with victims.

Cruz described the three-hour meeting as "emotionally draining" but said he felt heard.

Pope Francis' former finance minister was charged last year with offenses involving multiple complainants in his native Australia.