Tom Hanks is a practicing Greek Orthodox Christian.
Tom Hanks' Religious Journey and Conversion
While widely recognized for his iconic roles in cinema, Tom Hanks' personal faith journey has evolved over his lifetime. He converted to Greek Orthodox Christianity as an adult, a decision that aligned with his marriage to actress Rita Wilson.
Embracing Greek Orthodoxy
- Current Faith: Tom Hanks embraced Greek Orthodox Christianity, a faith with deep historical roots and a significant presence in the Eastern Christian tradition.
- Context of Conversion: His conversion occurred as an adult, following his marriage to Rita Wilson, who is of Greek heritage and a lifelong member of the Greek Orthodox Church. This transition brought him into a new spiritual community and tradition.
Diverse Religious Background
Before his conversion to Greek Orthodoxy, Tom Hanks experienced a varied religious landscape through his family and early life.
| Period/Connection | Religious Affiliation/Influence | Key Aspects |
|---|---|---|
| Family History | Catholic and Mormon | Hanks' family background included both Catholic and Mormon religious traditions. |
| Teenage Years | Evangelical Christian | During his adolescence, for several years, a journalist described Hanks as being a "Bible-toting evangelical." |
This diverse exposure to various Christian denominations and traditions ultimately led him to his current faith within the Greek Orthodox Church.
