In After the Earthquake, America, January 5-12, 2004, Thomas G. Plante a Professor of Psychology at Santa Clara University sees "Five reasons for hope after the sexual abuse scandal"

Among the cited reasons is the author's conclusion that 'The Voice of the Faithful is here to stay." The author continues:

The recent abuse crisis has ignited the sleeping Catholic laity in the United States. Voice of the Faithful is an excellent example. ... It quickly developed member branches across the United States and throughout the world that now represent about 40,000 members in 40 states and 21 countries. The growth, influence and active engagement of V.O.T.F. have been remarkable. Church structures and policies that concentrate decision making among the clergy and offer only advisory roles for the laity certainly do not encourage active engagement among rank and file Catholics. The recent crisis forced the laity to be more assertive with their church, and groups like Voice of the Faithful appear to be here to stay. This is good news, since it provides at least some degree of checks and balances on church authorities. A lively, active and involved laity can, in the end, only be productive for the church.