A "pastoral letter" is a letter written by a religious leader, such as a bishop, to members of their church or community. It usually contains guidance, encouragement, or important teachings on a particular topic. Full definition
But most denominations have settled instead for pastoral letters of a moderate tone, finding them controversial enough. (religion-online.org)
The centrality of human rights to Catholic social teaching is made clear in the opening chapter of the National Conference of Bishops pastoral letter on the U.S. economy. (religion-online.org)
Cardinals Saliegeof Toulouse and Gerlier of Lyons denounced the regime's anti-Semitic laws in pastoral letters and called upon the people to resist. (firstthings.com)