For years, the media have reported that the Holy See is “poised” to make a deal with China over bishops’ appointments. Last Saturday, it finally happened. The Vatican announced that it had signed a “provisional agreement” with the communist authorities, but offered few specifics. It shared just two significant details: that the Pope has created a new suffragan diocese of the See of Beijing and has readmitted to full communion eight bishops (one deceased) who were ordained without papal approval.