Priest apologises for calendar stunt

An Irish priest has apologised after he posed for a calendar wearing only a clerical collar, with his clerical assets covered by a Bible.

Father Olan Rynn conceded he had made a misjudgment in posing for the calendar, called Bare Shakers 2001. The priest posed in a leather chair with his legs crossed.

His photo has been removed following an intervention by the Bishop of Galway.

Fr Rynn said: "On reflection, I made an error of judgment, albeit with the best of intentions - to help raise funds for research in the area of child cancer and cerebral palsy".

Sunday afternoon drinkers at O'Leary's bar, opposite the Sacred Heart church where Fr Rynn works, were aware of the Bishop's view of the matter. But few appeared to share his annoyance.

A barwoman said: "I can't imagine too many people being that bothered. It is just a bit of craic. I do not think anyone should get their backs up over it, especially as it was done for charity. Maybe some of the more devout types might be a bit offended."

The Bishop, Dr James McLoughlin, said in a statement: "I did not appreciate the type of calendar which was envisaged and, thinking it to be a straightforward fund-raising project, I gave Fr Rynn permission to participate in this venture.

"On reading a report in a local newspaper, I was surprised and dismayed to discover what the actual content of the calendar was going to be. "

The bishop stressed that Fr Rynn was "a valued priest of the diocese and is in good standing with me".