Shia LaBeouf confirmed in Catholic Church, wants 'to become a deacon'

Shia LaBeouf has been confirmed into the Catholic Church, and is eyeing taking the steps to take the title of deacon.

The 37-year-old actor was seen in a series of shots posted by the Capuchin Franciscans - Western America Province, as church officials said he 'fully entered the Church this past weekend through the sacrament of confirmation!'

The Los Angeles native, who follows the path of a number of celebrities who have had religious awakenings in recent years, was seen posing in a number of shots with members of the religious institution.

The Transformers star was confirmed this past Sunday at the Old Mission Santa Inés Parish in Solvang, California, according to the Catholic News Agency. LaBeouf had previously spent time at the mission to prepare for his role in 2022's Padre Pio.

Capuchin friar Brother Alexander Rodriguez, who served as confirmation sponsor for LaBeouf, told the outlet Wednesday that LaBeouf has expressed interest in taking the steps to become a deacon 'sometime in the future.'

Rodriguez told the outlet that LaBeouf started to show interest in becoming a deacon while he was making the 2022 biographical drama Padre Pio, in which he portrayed the titular role.

'He just spontaneously said, "I want to become a deacon," and he still feels that way,"' Rodriguez told the outlet.

On Facebook, the group shared the shots, saying that 'the Capuchin Franciscan friars are overjoyed to welcome him into the fold and witness his deep commitment to his faith journey.'

The statement continued, 'Shia LaBeouf, known for his incredible talent and passion in the entertainment industry, has embarked on a profound spiritual journey that has led him to embrace the teachings of the Catholic Church.

'His decision to fully enter the Church is a testament to his sincere desire to grow in his relationship with God and live out the Gospel values.'

Church officials said that 'as Capuchin Franciscans, we believe in the transformative power of faith and the incredible impact it can have on one’s life,' and that they were 'humbled and grateful to walk alongside Shia as he takes this important step in his spiritual journey.'

The statement wrapped up, 'We invite you to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and to keep Shia LaBeouf in your prayers as he continues to deepen his faith and seek God’s guidance in his life.

'May his example inspire others to explore their own spiritual paths and find solace in the loving embrace of the Church.'

The Honey Boy actor spoke with Catholic bishop Robert Barron extensively about his religious inclinations in August of 2022, explaining how his preparation for the role in the film had a major impact on him.

'If you like immersive experiences and you get tasked with playing Pio, your life is going to change,' he said.

The actor has a number of pending projects in varying stages of production as the new year unfolds. They include the Francis Ford Coppola sci-fi drama Megalopolis, the action thriller Mace and the Barry Levinson thriller Assassination, which costars Al Pacino.