I 'Go to Church Every Day': Actor Mark Wahlberg Credits Faith for Turning His Life Around

Actor Mark Wahlberg likely surprised viewers when he appeared on CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight" last Friday to discuss a variety of issues -- his faith, the importance of family, his work in the community and more.

Wahlberg, who spent time in jail as a teenager, has overcome many barriers -- poverty and crime, among others. In fact, he calls his time behind bars after assaulting two individuals a wake-up call that led him to take positive steps to improve his life.

Below, watch Wahlberg address his jail time on Anderson Cooper's daytime show late last month:

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In his interview with Morgan, the actor, a Roman Catholic, was more than open about his faith, as he claimed that it was the single more important element in his life that has led to restoration.

"My faith has really allowed me to overcome a lot of things -- and hard work. You know, nothing comes easy...especially when you've got your back against the wall and you've got a lot going against you," he told Morgan.

"But I wanted to prove to people through my actions -- not my words -- that I was going to change and that I was going to make a positive impact on the community that I come from," Wahlberg continued, as he delved into the activities he participates in to help those in need. "I could not forget about where I came from and find myself in this position without helping and giving back."

Morgan then asked him about his participation in church. Considering that he's a busy and successful actor, Wahlberg's answer was surprising.

"If I don't go to mass necessarily every day...I definitely go to church every day," he said. "That's how I start my day. I like to get in there for about 15 or 20 minutes -- say my prayers."

Clearly curious by this response, Morgan asked, "What does it bring you?"

Wahlberg explained that church provides an opportunity for him to focus his day, while expressing his gratitude. Additionally, it allows him to clear his head so that he can focus upon his actions as well as the elements in his life that he needs to avoid. Prayer, too, is extremely important to the entertainer.

"I pray to be a good servant to God, a father, a husband, a son, a friend, a brother and uncle, a good neighbor, a good leader to those who look up to me and a good follower to those that are serving God and doing the right thing," he said.

Watch this portion of his interview, below:

(H/T: Greg Hengler at Townhall)