Mark Wahlberg, the devout Catholic and Hollywood actor, expressed that the Catholic faith is not widely embraced in Hollywood. However, he emphasized that he cannot renounce his religion because he believes it would be a greater transgression, especially as he marked the beginning of Lent.
During an appearance on the Today Show on Ash Wednesday, which signifies the commencement of the 40-day Lenten period, Wahlberg affirmed that he has always openly discussed his faith. He stated that he prefers not to force his beliefs on others, saying “I don’t wanna jam it down anybody’s throat”.
Wahlberg also reflected on how Catholicism has enabled him to strive towards personal improvement and become a better version of himself. He appeared on the show with a cross of repentance marked on his forehead, which is a customary practice for Christians on Ash Wednesday, a day dedicated to prayer and fasting.
Regarding the significance of his faith, Wahlberg expressed, “It’s everything, it’s afforded me so many things.” He further emphasized, “God didn’t come to save the saints, he came to save the sinners.” Reflecting on the challenges people face in their lives, he highlighted how focusing on his faith has facilitated his personal growth.
Discussing the influence of Catholicism within his family, Wahlberg mentioned his son Michael attending his confirmation last year, describing it as one of the seven Catholic sacraments. He shared that the sacrament symbolizes a reaffirmation of one’s faith in the religion they initially embraced after being baptized.
The actor, known for his roles in films such as “Uncharted” and “Ted,” has four children with Rhea Durham: Michael, Ella, Brendan, and Grace.
Ash Wednesday holds great religious significance for Christians, as it marks a day of repentance, prayer, and fasting. It is customary for devotees to receive ashes in the form of a cross on their foreheads, accompanied by the words “Repent, and believe in the Gospel” or the dictum “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
