PASTORAL

See also:

• LETTER (through Fr. lettre from Lat. littera or litera, letter of the alphabet; the origin of the Latin word is obscure; it has probably no connexion with the root of linere, to smear, i.e. with wax, for an inscription with a stilus)

LETTER  , an open letter addressed by a bishop to the clergy or laity of his diocese, or to both, containing either general admonition, instruction or consolation, or directions for behaviour in particular circumstances . In the Catholic Church such letters are also sent out regularly at particular ecclesiastical seasons, particularly at the beginning of fasts . In the non-episcopal Protestant churches the name "pastoral letter " is given to any open letter addressed by a pastor to his congregation, but more especially to that customarily issued at certain seasons, e.g. by the moderator of a Presbyterian assembly or the chairman of a Congregational or Baptist union .