Manchester, England - HE'S the answer to a silent prayer. The heavenly Mr Bean has got the call - to rally the faithful back to fill empty spaces on church pews.
Of course, the hapless comedy character played by Rowan Atkinson would sometimes try the patience of a saint.
But the man of few words will be spreading the message with the Bishop of Manchester, Nigel McCulloch, who stars alongside him in a DVD aimed at people who don't go to church.
Produced by the Diocese of Manchester, it includes excerpts from an episode of the famous TV series, in which Atkinson's loveable misfit awkwardly attempts to blend in with churchgoers.
Also featuring on the 15-minute film are testimonials from local people who describe their experiences of returning to church after a long absence.
Church of England parishes throughout the region will receive a copy of the disc to help them dream up ways of recalling lost followers.
Sermons
The DVD includes sermon suggestions and advice on how to invite friends to the service. But church bosses insist they are not making a "hard-sell" to non-Christians.
Bishop Nigel said he wanted to appeal to people who wanted to return to church but were unsure about how to do it. He added: "The idea is quite simple - to invite a friend on one special Sunday of the year, and to give our warmest welcome on that day to those who come back.
"People lose contact with the church for various reasons, but many people are looking for a chance to return and that's what this day is all about."
The initiative will culminate in an event dubbed Back to Church Sunday on September 25 in which churches will offer a special welcome to those who have lost contact with the church.
Parishioners will be encouraged to invite friends and relatives to services using postcards bearing the message "Wish You Were Here".
Last September, more than 880 "new" people attended special services at 160 parishes throughout the region.
This year, those who attend the special services will also be given "goody bags" containing bars of Co-op Fairtrade chocolate.