A critical task for any pope is the appointment of bishops: it is one of the concrete ways in which the Bishop of Rome exerts influence over the life of the Church throughout the world. Appointing men to lead dioceses is a delicate and laborious task which requires the papal nuncios in each country to research and compile dossiers on the dioceses and candidates. These are sent to Rome, where they are assessed by members of the Congregation for Bishops, currently led by the Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet. Its recommendation is referred to the Pope for a final decision and the chosen candidate is then asked if he accepts the post. However, there are an increasing number of priests who decline the offer: at a press conference at the Vatican this week Cardinal Ouellet confirmed, “I