Mark Wahlberg has opened up about practicing religion and says denying his faith is ‘a sin.’
Wahlberg is an American actor and former rapper known for films such as Ted, Daddy’s Home, and The Lovely Bones.
He’s also known for following a disciplined lifestyle which involves a 3:30 a.m. wake-up every day and a 4 a.m. workout.
As well as discussing his exercise routine with fans, Wahlberg has been incredibly candid regarding his faith.
One interview in which the actor discusses his religious beliefs went viral, receiving praise from fans.
One fan wrote, “So much respect for Mark. I love my faith too and am very grateful for it.”
Another added, “Thank you. We need to be shining examples, and you certainly are just that. God bless.”
A third admirer commented, “How wonderful that Mark is sharing his faith! I love him even more now!”
Wahlberg, a devout Catholic, has been open about his beliefs. He once appeared on The Today Show on Ash Wednesday—the first day of Lent—wearing an ash cross on his forehead.
During the interview, he spoke about the various aspects of fasting, emphasizing that “it shouldn’t just be food” that people give up.
Wahlberg explained the deeper meaning of fasting, emphasizing that it’s not just about food.
“I think the important thing to understand is that if you have issues with food, there are other things,” he said.
“God knows what He wants you to detach from. We all have things that make us feel guilty or hold us back. Fasting is about letting go of those things and focusing on good habits instead of bad ones.”
He also shared his personal fasting routine during Lent. “There are challenges, like today—I won’t have any meat. I’ll have just one meal, and I’ll continue that every Friday throughout Lent and on Good Friday.”
Later in the interview, Wahlberg spoke about the role of faith in his life and career.
“You know, it’s not popular in my industry, but I cannot deny my faith. It’s important for me to share that with people,” he said.
At the same time, he emphasized the value of inclusivity and respect. “I have friends from all walks of life and different faiths, so it’s important to honor and respect them as well.”
Despite his deep faith, Wahlberg made it clear that he doesn’t believe in imposing his beliefs on others. “I don’t want to jam it [Catholicism] down anybody’s throat,” he said, adding, “That’s an even bigger sin.”
The Patriots Day star also shared that while his four children aren’t required to follow Catholicism just because he does, they are expected to respect his beliefs.
“They know that Dad can’t start the day without prayer, reading Scripture, or going to Mass,” he explained.
Rather than forcing religion on them, he hopes his example will inspire them naturally. “Hopefully, they’ll see that if it works for Dad, maybe it’ll work for them, and they’ll gravitate toward it on their own.”
