The Simpsons, a cartoon-television show, has been enlisted by the Church of England, in its latest attempt, to attract young people to the Church.
In a new book, Mixing It Up With The Simpsons, youth workers from the Church will be urged to use episodes of the cartoon series to help explain theological issues such as the battle between good and evil, reported AFP on Tuesday.
One example of the series usefulness is a suggestion of putting out a plate of doughnuts – Homer's favourite food – with a 'do not touch' sign to encourage children to resist temptation.
The Church of England spokesman told AFP: "Some of the source material might seem a little bit unusual, but the book suggests biblical passages and group activities which we believe will help see the cartoon from the Christian perspective."
Owen Smith, the author of the book and a youth worker, said the cartoon was full of Biblical allusions and messages, reported the Daily Mail.
He told the Daily Mail: "The Simpsons is hugely moral, with many episodes dealing with issues and dilemmas faced by young people. The cartoon family regularly pray, say grace and go to church."
The initiative has received backing from the Church, with Archbishop of Canterbury Dr. Rowan Williams speaking of his adoration of the show.
The Church of England head said that the cartoon was "generally on the side of the angels and on the side of sense," and also explained that beneath the dysfunctional image of the animated family lay an example of "remarkable strength and remarkable mutual commitment."
"For all that Homer is a slob and Bart is a brat and Lisa is a pain in the neck, you know there's real affection and loyalty," Williams said.
U.S. Christian Post correspondent Eric Young contributed to this report.