Cooper Sorry for Making Racial Slur

DALLAS - A local religious leader who used a racial slur during a live Christian radio show on Sunday morning is asking for forgiveness.

Reading a prepared statement on Thursday, Dr. Lamar Cooper lamented having used the term "wetbacks" while discussing Arizona's new anti-illegal immigration law.

"I deeply regret having made the inappropriate, off-the-cuff statement," Cooper said. "I apologize to any and all who were offended by my comments, and ask for their forgiveness."

Cooper, the interim president of Criswell College, did not take questions after delivering his address.

According to the school, Cooper will not be considered a candidate for a full-time position, but it said the controversy has no bearing on that decision.

However, First Baptist Church Dallas, which broadcasts Copper's Bible study program, expressed regret for the comment and has suspended the program indefinitely .