R.I. Bishop Facing Backlash For Saying Catholics Should Not Support Pride Month

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (CBS/AP) — Rhode Island's Roman Catholic bishop is facing a backlash after tweeting that Catholics should not support or attend LGBTQ Pride Month events.

Diocese of Providence Bishop Thomas Tobin tweeted Saturday that Pride Month events in June "promote a culture and encourage activities that are contrary to Catholic faith and morals." He also wrote the events "are especially harmful for children."

Actress Mia Farrow was among 60,000 people who replied on Twitter, calling the bishop's comments "pure ignorance & bigotry." Farrow and many others who criticized the tweet also referred to the sex abuse of children by clergy.

The LGBTQ group Rhode Island Pride held a rally in response Sunday evening.

"That really sends the wrong message about what pride is and what it means to this community. So why not bring pride right to the front doorstep of Bishop Tobin," said attendee Bret Jacobs.

On Sunday, Tobin released a statement that said in part: "I regret that my comments yesterday about Pride Month have turned out to be so controversial in our community, and offensive to some, especially the gay community. That certainly was not my intention, but I understand why a good number of individuals have taken offense...That Catholic Church has respect and love for members of the gay community, as do I. Individuals with same-sex attraction are beloved children of God and our brothers and sisters. As a Catholic Bishop, however, my obligation before God is to lead the faithful entrusted to my care and to teach the faith."

Tobin's tweet received more than 13,000 likes and nearly 4,000 retweets.

Messages seeking comment were left with diocesan officials Sunday.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)