Mark Wahlberg and Mel Gibson star in new faith-based film about a boxer turned priest

Mark Wahlberg is a committed Catholic (Photo: Instagram/Mark Wahlberg)

Mark Wahlberg and Mel Gibson will be sharing the big screen this spring a new faith inspired movie about a troublemaker who becomes a respected priest.

"Father Stu" is based on the real life figure of Father Stuart Long whose promising boxing career was cut short by injury.

After numerous setbacks in life, the former agnostic has an unexpected vision of God that inspires him to become a priest - a decision he never looks back from. 

He will be played by Wahlberg in the movie, which releases in US theaters on April 15. 

"Father Stu's journey from troublemaker to clergyman was inspiring to many, including me," Wahlberg said.

"Rosey [director Rosalind Ross] has done an incredible job capturing the essence of who he was and how he affected the people he met. I hope that with this film, we keep his spirit alive and continue his good works."

Gibson will play his father in a supporting role in the movie alongside other cast members, Jacki Weaver and Teresa Ruiz. 

Gibson's partner, Rosalind Ross, wrote the script for the movie, which is also her directorial debut. 

News
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches

Every Christmas, people sing the song “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”. Unlike many other songs and carols that include elements of non-biblical tradition and myth, this song is pure Scripture. It was the first Christmas song authorised to be sung in the Church of England. This is the story …

The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914
The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914

On Christmas Eve in 1914, many men were in the trenches fighting the war, but the spirit of Christmas halted the conflict for a brief period. This is the story …

Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land
Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land

Jerusalem Church leaders have released a report detailing the struggles and challenges currently faced be Christians living in the Holy Land.

Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?
Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?

For you who have been followers of Jesus Christ for a long time, maybe the pain and suffering of this world and the darkness you have had to live through this past year has gotten you down to the point of complete and utter discouragement. But all is not lost.