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In the Catholic Church, many priests are called "pastor," though not all priests have this official title.
The title is primarily used to denote priests that lead a local parish and are appointed by the bishop.
The Catholic Encyclopedia gives a brief explanation of a pastor's duties.
When the parish is too large for a single pastor, he is typically assisted in his duties by other priests.
The title "pastor" is actually the Latin word that means "shepherd."
The title pastor is a direct reference to the fact that all priests are called to imitate Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
Pope Benedict XVI pointed this out in a homily for the ordination of priests on Good Shepherd Sunday in 2006.
Being a pastor in the Catholic Church is a weighty task, one that requires a close relationship with Jesus in order to guide his "sheep" to eternal life.
