a Of or pertaining to shepherds; hence, relating to rural life and scenes; as, a pastoral life.
a Relating to the care of souls, or to the pastor of a church; as, 'pastoral' duties; a 'pastoral' letter.
n A poem describing the life and manners of shepherds; a poem in which the speakers assume the character of shepherds; an idyll; a bucolic.
n (music) A cantata relating to rural life; a composition for instruments characterized by simplicity and sweetness; a lyrical composition the subject of which is taken from rural life. Moore
n (religion|Christianity) A letter of a pastor to his charge; specifically, a letter addressed by a bishop to his diocese.