THE lawyer for the woman in the centre of the Novena Church 'exorcism' case ended his cross-examination of a Catholic priest on Thursday with a parting shot, creating a stir in the courtroom.

Mr R. S. Bajwa, accusing Father Simon Tan of telling lies while on the stand, told the priest: 'As far as I'm concerned, may God forgive you.'

Gasps could be heard from the public gallery, while two lawyers acting for other defendants in the lawsuit jumped up from their seats to voice their objection and clamour for an apology.

'This is totally unecessary, Your Honour. It's not proper for counsel say that,' bellowed Mr Anthony Lee.

Mr Denis Tan, looking agitated, demanded that Mr Bajwa apologise for the remark, while those in the gallery murmured in agreement.

'He has insulted the man's religion,' Mr Tan added.

Mr Bajwa's calm reply: 'I offered him a blessing.'

Mr Lee retorted, his voice rising: 'He is in no position to give someone a blessing.'

Justice Lee Seiu Kin stepped in, first telling Mr Lee that he could hear him very clearly.

The judge then told Mr Bajwa: 'I think we are on sensitive ground here. I just want your undertaking that you will not repeat this with the next witness.'

The lawyer agreed but did offer an apology.

The flurry capped off Father Simon's second day of being grilled by Mr Bajwa.

Read the full story in Friday's edition of The Straits Times.