a patrick,
But here's the thing: if they actually DO fear that judgment, would they be afraid of being judged harshly for not following Canon Law, or for not doing all in their considerable powers to protect children, and bring justice those those who would harm them (including those who already DID harm them?)

Seems to me that if I were a bishop, and had that fear of eternal damnation, I'd care a lot less about a man-made set of laws (Canon Law), and a lot (and I mean a LOT) more about protecting children and promoting justice.  I don't remember Jesus warning of what will happen to those who violate an oath to uphold Canon Law, but I do remember that some of the harshest language we have from him is aimed at those who would harm children.  So if that fear really DOES exist among these guys, there's no sign of it.  Rather, it strikes me that they really don't believe in that imagery of Hell, or perhaps that they think their offices protects them?  It's just weird.