Mariological papal documents

Mariology is developed by theologians on the basis not only of Scripture and Tradition but also of the sensus fidei of the faithful as a whole, "from the bishops to the last of the faithful",[1] and papal documents have recorded those developments, defining Marian dogmas, spreading doctrines and encouraging devotions within the Catholic Church.

Popes have been highly influential for the development of doctrine and the veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Before the twentieth century, Popes promulgated Marian veneration and beliefs by authorizing new Marian feast days, prayers, initiatives, and special privileges.

Historically a Papal bull was "an Apostolic letter with a leaden seal.

[3] This dogma was proclaimed at the Council of Ephesus in 431 and promulgated by Pope Celestine I.