An Irish theologian has called on Bishop Ray Browne to publicly correct an “egregiously wrong” statement the prelate made about a controversial homily in Listowel, Co. Kerry.

Dr Tom Finegan of Mary Immaculate College in Thurles said that the bishop’s assertion that the views of Fr Seán Sheehy “do not represent the Christian position” is incorrect.

Retired priest Fr Sheehy continues to defend what he said regarding, sin, homosexuality, abortion and transgenderism during Mass in St Mary’s Church.

In a feature-length article in the Irish Catholic newspaper, Dr Finegan said the priest’s message was “essentially true” and that “Bishop Browne is wrong – egregiously wrong – when he bluntly asserts that Fr Sheehy’s statements ‘do not represent the Christian position’.

“Because his [Bishop Browne’s] assertion encourages presumption and discourages conformity to Christ, it is harmful to the eternal spiritual welfare of all who hear it. As a bishop he should publicly correct his remark for the sake of those with ears to hear.”