Shia LaBeouf Joins Catholic Church and May Pursue Deaconship, Confirms Capuchin Friars
ICARO Media Group
In a surprising turn of events, Hollywood actor Shia LaBeouf has officially become a member of the Catholic Church, with the possibility of becoming a deacon in the future. The news was shared by the Capuchin Franciscans' Western American Province in a joyful Facebook post on Tuesday, following LaBeouf's confirmation ceremony that took place the previous weekend.
The Capuchin Franciscans, who welcomed LaBeouf into their spiritual community, expressed their delight in witnessing his deep commitment to his faith journey. They described his decision to join the church as a testament to his sincere desire to grow in his relationship with God and live out Gospel values.
Born to a Christian father and Jewish mother, LaBeouf had been baptized as a child and had a bar mitzvah at the age of 13. However, in a 2022 interview with Bishop Robert Barron, LaBeouf confessed that his Jewish faith had felt superficial to him as he had never truly invested in it. It was his portrayal of the title role in Abel Ferrara's 2020 film, "Padre Pio," about the revered Capuchin friar known for bearing stigmata, that reportedly sparked his interest in Catholicism.
Brother Alexander Rodriguez, LaBeouf's confirmation sponsor and co-star in "Padre Pio," revealed that the actor plans to pursue the role of a deacon in the future. Rodriguez shared with the Catholic News Agency that LaBeouf's experience during the film production served as an inspiration for him.
In May 2023, LaBeouf disclosed to ChurchPOP that he had enrolled in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and had been on his journey to confirmation for seven months at the time. It is worth noting that LaBeouf's conversion to Catholicism comes amidst a series of troubling allegations made against him by his former girlfriend, FKA Twigs, including accusations of sexual battery, assault, and emotional distress. LaBeouf, acknowledging his struggles with alcoholism, has expressed remorse for his past actions.
While LaBeouf seeks spiritual growth, his scheduled trial for the aforementioned allegations is set to take place on October 14, 2024. The outcome of the trial may have implications for his personal and professional life moving forward.
The Hollywood star's decision to embark on this new chapter of faith has undoubtedly caught the attention of many, as fans and onlookers await further updates on his spiritual journey and the potential realization of his aspiration to be a deacon within the Catholic Church.