Ep 7. Deacon Stan, Jesus Man

Deacon Stan, Jesus Man is the seventh episode of the first season of the animated sitcom American Dad. The episode revolves around Stan Smith's spiritual crisis, which prompts him to become extremely religious and join the local megachurch, Second Christistan.

The episode begins with the Smith family attending church, where Stan fails to win the respect of his father or his priest, Father Donovan. Later on, while attending a Christian bookstore, Stan meets Pastor Roy, who invites him to attend a service at his megachurch, Second Christistan. Intrigued by the dynamic environment and the powerful sermon, Stan becomes a devoted member of the church and tries to imbibe its teachings in his daily life.

However, Francine and the kids grow worried about Stan's sudden zealotry, especially when he starts to shame them for their sins and even preaches at the dinner table. Steve and Hayley plan to confront their father but are unable to break through to him and end up getting involved in a baptism that Pastor Roy guilts them into attending.

Meanwhile, Roger the alien practices his own unique brand of religion, which involves worshipping his feline alias, Sidney Huffman, and creating an elaborate shrine in his room. He becomes jealous of Stan's newfound faith and decides to investigate Second Christistan to prove that something sinister is going on.

As the episode progresses, Stan becomes a "deacon" at the megachurch and basks in the adulation and authority it affords him. However, his faith is tested when he finds out that the church's true agenda is to market its merchandise, which includes T-shirts, wristbands, and even a "Bibleopoly" board game. Disturbed by the church's hypocrisy, Stan decides to confront Pastor Roy and expose his true motives.

Overall, Deacon Stan, Jesus Man is a satirical take on religious fanaticism and the commercialization of religion. The episode cleverly pokes fun at the megachurch culture and the blind faith that some people bestow upon their pastors. At the same time, it highlights the dangers of blindly following a cause without questioning its integrity and motives. All in all, it's a hilarious and thought-provoking episode that showcases the sharp writing and talented voice cast of American Dad.