Popes were highly important for the development of doctrine and the veneration of the Blessed Virgin. They made decisions not only in the area of Marian beliefs (Mariology) but also Marian practices and devotions. Before the twentieth century, Popes promulgated Marian veneration and beliefs by authorizing: * new Marian feast days, * prayers, initiatives, * acceptance and support of Marian congregations, * indulgences * special privileges,