From the main game menu, go to the Options screen, and then go to Pad Config. When in the Pad Config menu press and hold R2 and press Right, Down, Right, Triangle, X. If done correctly, you will hear a tone. Return to the main menu and you should find a new option called "CHEATS." Start a new game, pause, and choose CHEATS. You can now access God Mode, All Weapons, and other cool cheats.

Instead of walking up all those steps to get to the bell in the 1st level all you have to do is stand directly under the bell at the bottom of the stairs and fire the arc of death.