Gregory XVI's pontificate saw the reorganization of the hierarchy, the reform of existing orders, and the founding of new orders. Doctrinally, he promoted the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary without, however, defining it as a dogma of faith.

Most noteworthy were the efforts which he devoted to the Church outside Europe. The 19th-century revival of the missions dates from his reign, and in reorganizing them, he brought them firmly under papal control. Through him some seventy dioceses and vicariates apostolic were established, and almost 200 missionary bishops were appointed.