In an instance of a new atmosphere of accommodation between the Vatican and the Chinese Communist authorities, the Vatican has announced that it has recognized two previously excommunicated bishops as heads of dioceses and the Chinese Communist authorities have not interfered with the Vatican's right to handle church affairs in China.

The history is complicated. The hopes are great. The risks might be even greater.

Tomatoes and animals are one thing. Humans, though, are another.

Although China and the Vatican signed a provisional agreement on the appointment of bishops in September, persecution of Chinese Catholics continues.

This week on “Inside the Vatican,” we cover new developments in the case of former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick.

Catholic clergy and laypeople have been expelled from Myanmar's northern Shan state by a China-backed ethnic minority army.