When your town’s biggest claim to fame is being the birthplace of a popular silent film actor born in 1892, perhaps it’s surprising to some local residents that the 21st century is upon them and societal norms have changed. Oliver Hardy, of Laurel and Hardy fame, was born in Harlem, Georgia. Apparently not much has happened since to the 2.5 square mile town that boasts a population of 351 people.

Take Harlem, Georgia’s Public Safety Department Chief, Gary Jones.

Chief Jones decided to use the city’s very busy Facebook page to offer parents some bible-based advice: it’s OK to beat you kids, for example. Chief Jones also talks about God, Jesus Christ, and even recommended a specific preacher for those looking to find a new church.

“Fathers you are the head of the home and God will hold you accountable,” Chief Jones posted to the town’s Facebook page on November 21. “Get your children in church and teach them about the one and only true Saviour…Jesus Christ.”

“There are many kids that have been raised in Godly homes that have went astray at no fault of the parent(s); however, too many have went astray due to parents failing to discipline and get involved in their children’s lives.”

“The Police cannot raise your kids. Parents must become the disciplinarian and impose and enforce rules. The law does not prohibit a parent or guardian from spanking their children. The law says that parents may administer reasonable corporal punishment. No, it is not reasonable to strike a child with a bat or other object, but you can use a belt and strike their rear-ends. This may offend some parents that do not believe in spanking, and to you I say statistics are against you. Parents be nosy, check behind your kids and never assume that they will always be truthful. Doing these very things just may save the life of your child.”

More: Georgia Public Safety Chief Uses Town’s Facebook Page to Preach Bible-Based Beatings of Kids