pastorate

noun

1. 1

   The role or responsibilities of a pastor.

   “The old pastor found his pastorate wearying, and longed to retire.”

2. 2

   The period of service of a particular pastor to their congregation; their term of office.

   “His pastorate had been marked by several changes in church policy with regards to community outreach.”

3. 3

   An organization or body consisting of multiple pastors.

   “At the denomination's annual conference, the pastorate had passed a bylaw prohibiting members from performing online marriage ceremonies.”