On the doctrinal vs. pastoral thing, it has always seemed to me (my opinion, worth nothing), that papal quotes supporting "pastoral" run at about a 10:1 advantage over those leaning toward doctrinal, or worse, infallible (which the Magisterium generally is not).
But one particular quote from Pope Paul VI in 1977 -- promulgator of Vatican II, a year before his death -- stands out in my mind although not specifically addressing the D vs. P debate:
“The tail of the devil is functioning in the disintegration of the Catholic world. The darkness of Satan has entered and spread throughout the Catholic Church even to its summit. Apostasy, the loss of the faith, is spreading throughout the world and into the highest levels within the Church.”
If anyone reading can prove that this quote is not authentic I would be most appreciative to hear of it.
Meanwhile, glad my only pressing decision at the moment is regular vs. spicy.
LOL! I'm grateful to not be in charge of things, myself.
Since I’m up early, even for me, with my catz and my anxieties (maybe the same thing ...), I just wanted to let you know that I’ve had your family constantly in prayer! I printed a picture of the martyrdom of Bl. Father Pro and put it as a bookmark in my journal, so at least once a day, he and I both remember that you need God’s blessings.
Excelsior, FRiend ... it will soon be spring, even where you live.