Israel Folau's latest social media outburst against homosexuality has seen the Wallabies star come under fire once again, this time from a member of the Tongan royal family.
Folau, 29, courted more controversy earlier this week, sharing an 11-minute sermon from American evangelist David Wilkerson, including calls for repentance over same-sex marriage, coming after last month's declaration that that gay people would go to "hell".
Taking to Twitter, Tongan princess the Honorable Frederica Tuita Filipe said she could no longer remain silent over Folau's behaviour.
"Obviously the way we represent our interpretation of God's word & love is different," she wrote.
"My silence was my attempt at respecting our different interpretations but I fear by doing that I'm encouraging the marginalization of a group of people I love & serve as much as any other Tongan.
"Our core Tongan values are intertwined w/ our Christian values of love, respect, humility & commitment. Those values aren't reserved for a few & are most effective when shown to everyone, even when you don't agree w/ them.
"You've worked hard to be in a position of leadership, I was born into mine.
"I've seen how forgiveness, love & inclusion bring people closer to God. I hope the trials you face give you the strength to open your heart & mind to differing views."
Homosexuality is illegal in Tonga, however the island nation does have an active LGBTI community.
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