Church leaders are being criticised for allowing a John Lennon song linked with atheism, to be performed on Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral bells.
Imagine - voted one of the greatest songs of all time - is to be played to mark the start of the North West's Futuresonic Festival on May 13.
Lennon famously described himself and his music as 'anti-religious' and Christian groups have blasted the decision as 'wholly inappropriate.'
Penned in 1971, the song opens with the line 'Imagine there's no heaven, It's easy if you try,' followed later by 'Nothing to kill or die for and no religion too.'
Despite realising the concerns over the lyrics of the song the cathedral has decided to go ahead with the bell-ringing, much to the annoyance of traditionalist religious groups.
General Secretary to the Church Society Rev David Phillips, said: "To choose such a song to be tolled on the cathedral bells is wholly inappropriate.
"The song clearly offends many people, so the decision baffles me.
"The lyrics are clearly inconsistent with Christian teachings and I do not believe this should be allowed to happen.
"Why would you allow music created by someone who admitted to hating religion be played at a place of worship?"
Spokesman for religious group Christian Voice, Steven Green said: "A song written by someone who described himself as 'anti-religious' is not appropriate for the cathedral bells.
"Liverpool has strong Christian roots and these are being pushed by this stunt.
"Agreeing to play a song which promotes Atheism is very surprising and requires more careful consideration."
The Anglican Cathedral claims they have taken into consideration the feeling surrounding the song and believe the public should focus on the lyrics which promote peace.
A spokesman said: "The proposed performance will be thought-provoking as it yearns for peace in a broken and troubled world.
"We anticipate it will be a very moving and spiritual experience and will engage all people in worship.
"We took into consideration sensitivities surrounding the song's lyrical content and feel the message of bringing people together in harmony is very strong."
Festival director Drew Hemment, who founded Futuresonic in 1995, praised the cathedral for reflecting the city's famous tolerance and courage.
He said: "When the idea of Imagine being performed over church bells, was suggested, I realised it had to happen in Liverpool and the Anglican Cathedral was perfect.
"Their support for the project has been fantastic and reflects the city's famous tolerance and courage.
"This event celebrates the unique spirit of Liverpool that runs through both the Cathedral and Lennon's secular message."
Futuresonic takes place from May 13-16. Details on www.futuresonic.com
RevPeter Ratcliff, London around 1 year, 3 months ago