A popular Italian priest has apologized for what he says was a slip of the tongue remark, when he said that the "radical-chic Jewish lobby is stretching out to weaken the whole Church, starting with the American Church."

The priest, 81-year-old Father Pierino Gelmini, said he actually meant to refer to a Masonic lobby, according to the European Jewish Press. After his remarks were published in Italian newspapers, he stated he has "a great deal of consideration and respect" for Jews. His published comments included charges that Jews spread rumors against him involving sex abuse, for which he is being investigated by police.