Pastor
Overview
The word pastor usually refers to an ordained leader of a Christian
congregation. When used as an ecclesiastical styling or title, this role may be abbreviated to "Pr
." or often "Ps".
In some countries the term is used in relation to Protestant churches. It can also be used in reference to priest
s and bishop
s within the Catholic
, Eastern Orthodox, and Oriental Orthodox churches. The word itself is derived from the Latin word which means "shepherd
".
Christian
A Christian is a person who adheres to Christianity, an Abrahamic, monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the Canonical gospels and the letters of the New Testament...
congregation. When used as an ecclesiastical styling or title, this role may be abbreviated to "Pr
PR
PR commonly stands for* Public relations, a field concerned with maintaining public image* Puerto Rico* Proportional representation, a property of some voting systemsPR, P...
." or often "Ps".
In some countries the term is used in relation to Protestant churches. It can also be used in reference to priest
Priest
A priest is a person authorized to perform the sacred rites of a religion, especially as a mediatory agent between humans and deities. They also have the authority or power to administer religious rites; in particular, rites of sacrifice to, and propitiation of, a deity or deities...
s and bishop
Bishop
A bishop is an ordained or consecrated member of the Christian clergy who is generally entrusted with a position of authority and oversight. Within the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox Churches, in the Assyrian Church of the East, in the Independent Catholic Churches, and in the...
s within the Catholic
Roman Catholic Church
The Catholic Church, also known as the Roman Catholic Church, is the world's largest Christian church, with over a billion members. Led by the Pope, it defines its mission as spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ, administering the sacraments and exercising charity...
, Eastern Orthodox, and Oriental Orthodox churches. The word itself is derived from the Latin word which means "shepherd
Shepherd
A shepherd is a person who tends, feeds or guards flocks of sheep.- Origins :Shepherding is one of the oldest occupations, beginning some 6,000 years ago in Asia Minor. Sheep were kept for their milk, meat and especially their wool...
".