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Disney Star Vanessa Hudgens Says Hillsong Strengthened Relationship with Christ

  • Carrie Dedrick Religious persecution, missions, Christianity around the world
  • Updated Apr 10, 2015

Former Disney star Vanessa Hudgens said in a recent interview that she credits the Hillsong megachurch with bringing her back to a “personal relationship with Jesus.” 

Hudgens, who is famous for her role of Gabriella Montez in the High School Musical franchise, grew up Catholic but did not feel “connected” to her faith until she started attending Hillsong. Hudgens said her boyfriend introduced her to the church which has changed her outlook on life. 

Christian Today reports Hudgens previously struggled with insecurity while dating High School Musical co-star Zac Efron. 

"I went through a phase when I was really mean because I was so fed up. Girls were running after him, and I was giving them death stares. Then I realized that's not what that's about,” she said. 

The 26-year-old actress has since learned to “spread the love, be a good person, be nice,” thanks to Hillsong. 

Hudgens said the Hillsong United worship band fuels her faith. 

"It feels like Arcade Fire — it's epic like that," she said. "They really focus on you having your own personal relationship with Jesus, which is wonderful."

Publication date: April 10, 2015