Disney actor David Henrie is sharing his Catholic faith with his family and the world using the Corporal Works of Mercy.
As ChurchPOP reported in November, the former Disney actor joined forces with Cross Catholic Outreach to bring toys to children in need for Christmas with the “Box of Joy.”
Henrie is most known for his role as Justin Russo alongside Selena Gomez on Disney Channel’s “Wizards of Waverly Place.”
The actor recently visited the Dominican Republic for a mission trip with the organization. He delivered gifts to these impoverished children.
Henrie sat down with ChurchPOP editor Jacqueline Burkepile for an interview about the initiative with Cross Catholic Outreach, the mission trip, and his Catholic faith. He told ChurchPOP about this “eye-opening” experience, which he says allows his family to actively participate in the Corporal Works of Mercy.
“The ‘Box of Joy’ initiative just touched my whole family’s heart and gave us a real way to participate in the Corporal Works of Mercy. I just got back from the Dominican Republic and it was a really eye-opening trip,” he says.
Henrie says that when he arrived and got off the bus in the Dominican Republic, children immediately greeted him with open arms.
“They are very touchy-feely because a lot of times, their parents are aren’t around and they might not necessarily get the physical affection that they might be craving,” Henrie explains.
“There’s a peace and a calmness in their eyes…it was a really sweet experience.”
Henrie continues his efforts on Instagram with a fundraiser so he can deliver 200 more gifts to the Dominican Republic by Christmas.
Henrie on Sharing His Catholic Faith
In the interview, Henrie also explains why he shares his Catholic faith with his large social media following. ChurchPOP later receives a special surprise visit from two of his young children.
Henrie says the Catholic faith is the most important thing in his life.
“It’s the most important thing in my life. So I’m just gonna be myself. I’m gonna be authentic and I don’t have any sort of agenda to share,” he says.
“I’m working hard. I think actions speak louder than words. That famous Saint Francis quote comes to mind about using words only when necessary. So to me, I just try to try to
live my faith as best as possible and let my actions speak for themselves.”
Listen to the full interview with David Henrie below:
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Learn more about Cross Catholic Outreach’s “Box of Joy” initiative here.