Tom Hanks, one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, is not only renowned for his impressive filmography but also for his complex relationship with faith and spirituality. His religious beliefs have evolved over time, shaped by his upbringing, personal experiences, and the influence of his family. This article delves into Hanks’s religious journey, exploring the foundations of his beliefs, his current affiliation with the Greek Orthodox Church, and how these elements have informed both his personal life and career.
Early Life And Religious Exposure
Tom Hanks was born on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California. He grew up in a family that experienced significant religious diversity. His parents divorced when he was young, leading to exposure to various religious traditions. Hanks has described his early life as a “peripatetic overview” of different faiths. He was primarily raised in a Christian environment, attending various Protestant churches with his family.
His stepmother converted to Mormonism, while his aunt was a member of the Nazarene Church—an ultra-Methodist denomination.
Additionally, many of his friends during high school were Jewish.
This eclectic background provided Hanks with a rich tapestry of religious experiences. He has noted that the major religion he encountered in the first ten years of his life was Catholicism. He participated in Wednesday-night Bible studies and engaged with the teachings of various faiths. Reflecting on this diverse upbringing, Hanks stated, “There was a lot of great stuff to think about,” highlighting the intellectual pursuit involved in exploring different religions.
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Conversion to Greek Orthodoxy
A significant turning point in Hanks’s spiritual journey occurred when he married Rita Wilson in 1988. Wilson, who is of Greek and Bulgarian descent, is a devout member of the Greek Orthodox Church. In preparation for their marriage, Hanks converted to Greek Orthodoxy—a decision that underscored his commitment to their shared values and family life.
Hanks has expressed that being part of the Greek Orthodox Church has profoundly influenced him. He appreciates the church’s rich liturgical traditions and its emphasis on community and spirituality. In interviews, he has described how participating in church services allows him to meditate on life’s bigger questions and connect with a sense of purpose.
He explained that he enjoys being Orthodox because it provides an atmosphere conducive to reflection and meditation on profound life questions. His faith matured within this context, allowing him to explore spirituality more deeply than before.
Personal Beliefs And Views on God
Tom Hanks identifies as a born-again Christian but emphasizes that his relationship with God is deeply personal and unique to him. He acknowledges that while he adheres to Greek Orthodoxy now, he still respects other interpretations of faith. In an interview with Parade, he stated:
“I still believe in being able to leave the heavens to those who want to interpret the heavens as they see fit”.
This statement reflects Hanks’s inclusive approach to spirituality. He recognizes the diversity of beliefs within Christianity and beyond while maintaining his own convictions.
Hanks’s views on God are characterized by a sense of wonder and inquiry. He often ponders existential questions such as why people behave as they do or why bad things happen to good people. He has articulated that visiting church allows him to engage with these mysteries actively.
Despite being affiliated with Greek Orthodoxy, some of Hanks’s beliefs diverge from traditional Christian teachings. For instance, he has been vocal about social issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, which may not align with conservative interpretations within both Catholicism and Orthodoxy2. His role in the film Philadelphia, which addressed HIV/AIDS and homophobia, positioned him as an advocate for gay rights—a stance that reflects his broader views on humanity and compassion.
The Role of Faith in Personal Life
Hanks’s marriage to Rita Wilson has been a cornerstone of his faith journey. The couple has navigated significant challenges together, including Wilson’s battle with breast cancer in 2015 and their son Chet’s struggles with substance abuse. During these trying times, their shared faith provided strength and hope.
In interviews, Wilson praised Hanks for his unwavering support during her health crisis:
“I was so amazed… who knew it would make you even closer?”.
Their commitment to each other and their faith has contributed to a resilient marriage that stands out in Hollywood.
Hanks also emphasizes the importance of family in practicing faith. He and Wilson have ensured that their children are baptized in the same font where Wilson was baptized at their local cathedral. This act symbolizes not only their commitment to their faith but also their desire to pass these values onto the next generation.
Influence on Career Choices
Hanks’s religious beliefs have subtly influenced some of his film roles and projects throughout his career. While not overtly religious films, several works reflect themes related to spirituality, morality, and redemption. For example:
| Film | Themes Explored |
| The Green Mile | Redemption, justice, supernatural elements |
| Angels & Demons | Conflict between science and religion |
| Saving Private Ryan | Sacrifice, duty, human spirit during war |
These films often grapple with complex moral questions that resonate with Hanks’s personal beliefs about humanity and ethics.
Conclusion
Tom Hanks’s religious journey is marked by a blend of personal conviction and familial influence. Raised in a diverse religious environment, he ultimately found a spiritual home within the Greek Orthodox Church after marrying Rita Wilson. His beliefs reflect an openness to various interpretations of faith while maintaining a deep connection to God.
Hanks’s approach to spirituality emphasizes inquiry over dogma—he engages with life’s mysteries rather than adhering strictly to traditional teachings. His commitment to family values is evident in how he practices his faith alongside his wife and children.
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