LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s viral video of her feeding a journalist a Dorito chip drew outrage from the Catholic Diocese of Lansing, calling her actions “offensive,” “distasteful,” and “strange.”

Bishops, speaking for the area’s Catholic believers, took offense to the video which they say mocks believers taking communion.

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The full statement is below:

“The Bishops of Michigan have expressed their profound disappointment and offense taken with Governor Gretchen Whitmer for posting a video skit on social media showing the state’s Governor feeding a Dorito corn chip to a kneeling podcaster in a manner that is widely being perceived as a mockery of the Holy Eucharist.

The skit goes further than the viral online trend that inspired it, specifically imitating the posture and gestures of Catholics receiving the Holy Eucharist, in which we believe that Jesus Christ is truly present, said Paul A. Long, President and CEO of the Michigan Catholic Conference which represents the seven dioceses of the state.

It is not just distasteful or strange; it is an all-too-familiar example of an elected official mocking religious persons and their practices. While dialogue on this issue with the governor’s office is appreciated, whether or not insulting Catholics and the Eucharist was the intent, it has had an offensive impact.

In the video skit, which was posted on YouTube [Thursday], Governor Whitmer lays the Dorito chip on the extended tongue of a woman, Canadian podcaster Liz Plank, who, as the camera pans out, is shown to be kneeling in the same manner as one would when receiving Holy Communion on the tongue. The Michigan governor then stares expressionless into the camera.

People of this state and across the country have grown tired of and continue to express their alarm at the bar of civility and respect toward people of faith lowering by the day, added Paul Long.

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Michigan is a religiously diverse state and includes thriving communities of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim believers. The time is now for those in public office, their handlers, and strategists to return a level of respect, civility, and appreciation for those who have found peace and fulfillment in life by worshiping God and serving their neighbor.”

Gov. Whitmer issued a statement following the backlash. In it, she apologizes for her actions being misconstrued, but did not apologize for the actions themselves.

“Over 25 years in public service, I would never do something to denigrate someone’s faith,” the statement said. “I’ve used my platform to stand up for people’s right to hold and practice their personal religious beliefs. My team has spoken to the Michigan Catholic Conference. What was supposed to be a video about the importance of the CHIPS Act to Michigan jobs, has been construed as something it was never intended to be, and I apologize for that.”