The sizable settlements, combined with steeply declining donations, have left the archdiocese teetering on the brink of financial collapse, with officials acknowledging the church is now borrowing to meet its day-to-day operating costs. In December, the church's finance council authorized Cardinal Law to seek Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection if necessary.

     In an effort to control costs, the archdiocese has slashed social service programs, mortgaged its Brighton headquarters, and is planning to sell some of its extensive real estate holdings.

See the story list to the left for the latest coverage of the scandal's financial cost.