Protest condemns Pope's abuse cover-up

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Demonstrators gathered Saturday in Providence to protest new allegations that Pope Benedict XVI covered up a child sex abuse case in Europe.

A former colleague claims that while working as an archbishop in Germany the Pontiff transferred a suspected pedophile priest to a new job, where he was later accused of abusing children.

The Pope served as archbishop of Munich from 1977-1982 but claims he was not aware of the transfer. He is also coming under fire for a 2001 Vatican document that instructs officials to keep any possible sex abuse scandals quiet. At the time the document was issued, the Pontiff was in charge of the office that deals with sexual abuse cases.

Allegations of abuse have also surfaced at the prestigious choir that was led by the Pope's brother from 1964 until 1994. His brother says the allegations date from before he was choir director.

Saturday in Cathedral Square demonstrators gathered while two Rhode Island victims shared their stories of abuse, hoping to spread awareness of the issue.

In addition to Providence protesters also gathered in over 30 cities across the country Saturday.