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Why are some Catholic priests called “pastor”?

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Philip Kosloski - published on 04/25/21
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Priests are often called "pastor" to designate their role as shepherd over a local parish.

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.

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.

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