Fallout After Rhode Island Bishop's Controversial 'Pride Month' Tweet

June marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, seen by many as a turning point in the push for LGBTQ equality.

But on Saturday the Bishop of Providence Rhode Island, Thomas Tobin, sent a controversial Tweet.

"A reminder that Catholics should not support or attend LGBTQ 'Pride Month' events held in June," he said. "They promote a culture and encourage activities that are contrary to Catholic faith and morals. They are especially harmful for children."

The statement, unsurprisingly, generated some strong responses — more than 86,000 on Twitter alone.

Bishop Tobin has since issued a statement saying he regretted that his tweet was "so controversial" and "offensive to some," but that his "obligation before God is to lead the faithful entrusted to my care and to teach the faith, clearly and compassionately, even on very difficult and sensitive issues."

Marianne Duddy-Burke, executive director of DignityUSA.

Richard Gaillardetz, chair of the theology department at Boston College and former president of the Catholic Theological Society of America.