I follow the teachings of the Holy Father that I understand. Usually they resonate if they filter down to me. I certainly don't hear much about them in church though (did not mean that to be snide which I can be sometimes). I read them somewhere or hear them on the news. That's where I heard he was against cloning, surrogate parenting, not buying Satanic Verses, a few other things. I have learned quite a bit here if I can wade through the disputes and flame wars between the traditionalists and novus order catholics.
Your prayer life drying up can mean IT IS ALREADY DEEPENING.. read St Theresa of Avila or John of the Cross they are DOCTORS OF OUR CHURCH ON PRAYER...fortunately my diocese has a great Bishop and Holy priests so we have good homilies...I never rely on the secular press for my news.. is there a third order in your area that you can join? HANG IN THERE SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE "IN THE DESERT" in your spiritual life..