What does “Pastoral care” mean?
"Pastoral care" means the support and guidance provided to individuals, usually in a religious or educational setting, to help them with their emotional, spiritual, and personal well-being.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The church offers pastoral care to its members during times of crisis.
Example
The school has a dedicated team of counselors who provide pastoral care to students.
Example
The pastoral care program focuses on nurturing the emotional and spiritual needs of the community
Is “Pastoral care” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Pastoral care” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Pastoral care” effectively in context?
You can use "pastoral care" to refer to the support and guidance provided to individuals, usually in a religious or educational setting, to help them with their emotional, spiritual, and personal well-being. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:
- 1Religious Setting
The church offers pastoral care to its members during times of crisis, providing counseling and spiritual guidance.
- 2Educational Setting
The school has a dedicated team of counselors who provide pastoral care to students, offering support and guidance for their emotional well-being.
- 3Community Program
The pastoral care program focuses on nurturing the emotional and spiritual needs of the community, providing a safe space for individuals to seek guidance and support.
Similar phrases to “Pastoral care”:
The provision of professional guidance and support to individuals dealing with personal, social, or psychological issues.
Example
She sought counseling to help her cope with the loss of a loved one.
Emotional support
The provision of comfort, understanding, and encouragement to someone experiencing emotional distress.
Example
He relied on his friends for emotional support during a difficult time.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Pastoral care” come from?
The origin of the phrase "pastoral care" can be traced back to the Christian tradition, specifically within the context of the role of a pastor or shepherd. In Christianity, pastors are seen as spiritual leaders who guide and support their congregation, much like a shepherd cares for their flock. Over time, the term "pastoral care" has expanded beyond its religious origins and is now commonly used in various settings, including education and counseling.
Is “Pastoral care” common in everyday conversation?
While "pastoral care" is more commonly used in religious and educational contexts, it is not a phrase that is widely known or used in everyday conversation. It is more specific and may not be familiar to everyone outside of these particular settings.
What tone does “Pastoral care” have?
"Pastoral care" conveys a tone of compassion, support, and nurturing. It implies a caring and empathetic approach to helping individuals with their emotional and spiritual well-being.
Can “Pastoral care” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Pastoral care" is generally used in formal or professional settings, such as religious institutions, educational institutions, or counseling services. It is less commonly used in informal conversations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
While "pastoral care" can be used as part of a sentence, such as 'The school provides pastoral care to its students,' it can also be used by itself to refer to the concept of support and guidance in a religious or educational context.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- pastoral counseling
- care and support
- holistic guidance
- personal well-being assistance
- emotional and spiritual nurturing
Antonyms
- neglect
- abandonment
- indifference
- lack of support
- emotional neglect
