Mark Wahlberg in Chicago to encourage youth to embrace their faith

Actor Mark Wahlberg was in Chicago Friday and ready to talk, not about a new movie but religion.

He was a special guest of Cardinal Blase Cupich for a young adult faith night, called (re)Encounter, held at the UIC pavilion.

“The Archdiocese is embarking on a real strong effort to tap into the energy and the enthusiasm of young people to invigorate and enliven our church,” said Cardinal Cupich.

The event was hosted by Cardinal Cupich and included live music, prayerful worship and presentations from faith leaders, including the Cardinal and special guest Wahlberg - who said his troubled past to stardom helps him connect to everyone.

The movie star is a vocal and devout Catholic and hopes to encourage younger generations to embrace their faith too.

“It’s one thing to kind of start programs and give grants and money, that sort of thing it's another to actually be there, be able to talk to them and know that there is somebody who’s been through what they are going through,” said Wahlberg.