When it comes to printing errors, most tend to be a result of a little oversight. However, while most issues with leaflets and posters may refer to typographical issues or unnoticed design flaws, one Finnish company’s idea was a whole new level of unsuitable – particularly with religious customers.

The Scandinavian toilet paper manufacturer made a public apology after it accidentally offended church leaders by printing Bible quotes on toilet rolls. In a recent report for Reuters, it was revealed that Meta Tissue – which often prints philosophical phrases, quotes and poetry on its toilet paper to give people something to read during an otherwise boring time, had accidentally conveyed the wrong message.

This time around, Meta Tissue has selected quotes relating to love from Facebook submissions, though had not checked the phrases carefully enough; as a result, lines from the Gospel of Matthew and First Corinthians managed to find their way onto the paper.

Responding to the new product, Laila Riksaasen Dahl, Bishop of Tunsberg in Norway, said: “This is bad taste and shows [a] lack of respect. Bible verses do not belong on a roll of toilet paper.”

However, Christina Von Trampe, a spokesperson for Meta Tissue, was quick to defend the print. “People like to read small, happy messages while sitting on the toilet,” she said. “The vast majority of the feedback has been positive. Our intention was to spread love and joy, not religious messages.”