Shia LaBeouf has converted to Catholicism and wants to hold a special position in the church

Shia LaBeouf has converted to Catholicism after filming the movie Padre Pio.

The star of Transformers underwent confirmation, according to a statement from a group of Capuchin Franciscan friars in California.

The friars welcomed the Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull actor into the faith with a statement posted on their Facebook page on Tuesday (January 2).

They said: “We are thrilled to share that our dear friend Shia LaBeouf has fully entered the Church this past weekend through the sacrament of confirmation.

"His decision to fully enter the Church is a testament to his sincere desire to grow in his relationship with God and live out the Gospel values."

They also invited people to 'keep Shia LaBeouf in your prayers', concluding the statement by saying: "May his example inspire others to explore their own spiritual paths and find solace in the loving embrace of the Church."

But it seems that simply converting is not enough for LaBeouf, who has also reportedly expressed desire to take on a more formal role within the Church.

Facebook / Capuchin Franciscans Western America Province

The actor's confirmation sponsor Brother Alexander Rodriguez told the Catholic News Agency that he wants to become a deacon 'sometime in the future'.

A deacon is an ordained Catholic minister ranking below a priest.

Deacons can preach gospel at mass as well as baptise, witness marriages and preside at funerals, according to the Diocese of Salford's website.

Married men can become deacons and remain married, though if you are single and become a deacon, you can't marry afterwards.

UNILAD has contacted LaBeouf's representatives for comment.

LaBeouf converted to Catholicism after filming the movie Padre Pio - which is about an Italian priest who received the stigmata, or marks of the crucifixion, while living in Southern Italy after World War One.

The star has previously opened up about how he was drawn to Catholicism following difficulties in his personal life.

Facebook / Capuchin Franciscans Western America Province

These included a 2020 lawsuit filed by his ex FKA Twigs which alleges that he carried out 'relentless abuse', with a court date is scheduled for October 14.

LaBeouf has denied the allegations 'generally and specifically', according to TODAY.

He also denied the claims in an article for The New York Times, saying 'many of these allegations are not true'

He also added: "I’m not in any position to tell anyone how my behavior made them feel.

"I have no excuses for my alcoholism or aggression, only rationalisations. I have been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years.

"I have a history of hurting the people closest to me. I’m ashamed of that history and am sorry to those I hurt. There is nothing else I can really say.”

Contrastingly, in a February 2021 statement, he also denied inflicting 'any injury or loss' on Barnett, stating she is not 'entitled to any relief or damages whatsoever'.