A VICAR is to launch a series of evening classes – about the Christian messages in the cartoon series The Simpsons.The Rev Robin Spittle said The Simpsons was one of his favourite television programmes and added the series could teach a lot about being a Christian.

A VICAR is to launch a series of evening classes – about the Christian messages in the cartoon series The Simpsons.

The Rev Robin Spittle said The Simpsons was one of his favourite television programmes and added the series could teach a lot about being a Christian.

"Episodes such as Homer the Heretic and Bart Sells His Soul have important moral messages, which can be a springboard for discussion," he said.

Mr Spittle has been holding special The Simpsons lunchtime classes at Kesgrave High School for several months, but from next month is planning to bring their message to the wider community.

The vicar of All Saints Church in Kesgrave said: "The school classes have gone down really well. The response is always really positive. The new classes are for any Simpsons fans, over 12, who are interested in learning more about the Christian messages in the show."

The connection between a popular American cartoon and the teachings of the Bible may not be immediately obvious, but Mr Spittle said there were Christian themes running through every episode.

"For example, one of the recurring storylines is that either Marge or Homer is tempted to have an affair, but they always remain faithful to each other. You can't get much more of a Christian message than that," he added.

Four classes will be held, each one focusing on one of the main characters – Marge, Homer, Lisa and Bart.

Mr Spittle is well-known for his unconventional approach to spreading God's message and he regularly holds services in a Kesgrave pub.

He also holds classes at Kesgrave High School each year that explain how the Easter message is evident in blockbuster films, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter.

"The predominant theme in both films is the triumph of good over evil, but there are also issues of loyalty, sacrifice and temptation," explained Mr Spittle.

The first of The Simpsons evening classes will be held at All Saints Church on April 20 at 7pm. For more details, contact Mr Spittle on 01473 622181.