Two Catholic bishops regret private prayer used in Trump campaign photos

Two Catholic bishops in the United States expressed regret after images and video of them praying with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office were released by the White House, according to BBC World and The Guardian.

The meeting took place on October 22 and involved a group of bishops gathered around Trump at the Resolute Desk. The bishops said they had believed the gathering was a private prayer session and not intended as a political photo opportunity.

Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob and Bishop William Joensen of Des Moines issued statements saying they did not intend to endorse any political party or candidate. Joensen said he wished he had been more cautious, noting that their meeting was exploited for partisan political purposes.

The meeting was arranged by the White House Faith Office to discuss topics such as immigration, visas for international clergy, and the exploitation of vulnerable poor persons. The video and photos were released by a White House communications adviser who often shares behind-the-scenes images of Trump.

The bishops' statements followed criticism and questions raised about the political implications of the images ahead of the upcoming US elections next week.

What we're watching: How religious leaders and political figures navigate the use of private meetings in public political messaging during election periods.