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This research employs historical institutional analysis to explore the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Beijing and the Holy See. By examining the perceived priorities from the two primary leaders of this diplomatic dance, I present the public narrative involved in the potential opening of formal recognition. Beyond the official transcript, however, this research also explores the roles of other interested parties, including the underground Chinese Catholic Church, the Taiwan-based Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference, and interested Catholics around the world. The relationship between the world's largest and smallest state is important beyond the exchange of papal nuncios and missions - its likely impacts will be felt by Chinese Catholics (estimated between 10-15 million, of which 8 million are likely "underground"); Taiwanese Catholics (estimated 300,000); and other groups seeking free religious expression and collective voices beyond religiosity.This bilateral relationship provides both unique factors as well as comparative insights. A distinctive aspect of this case study is the zero-sum nature of the Vatican's recognition of Beijing: should this switch indeed occur, the Holy See would relinquish its diplomatic recognition of the Republic of China on Taiwan, a move it appears prepared to take. Comparatively, the case of Beijing's relationship with the Vatican can best be understood by other cases in which diplomacy, internal affairs and religious freedom coincide, including the Vatican's relationship with the Republic of Cuba, and the seemingly imminent recognition between the Holy See and Socialist Republic of Vietnam. ..PAT.-Unpublished Manuscript [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]