After more than three decades in the entertainment world, Extra host Mario Lopez has seen just about everything. But even after all those years, he knows what truly matters in life. In a heartfelt new interview with In Touch Weekly—available now on newsstands—the 44-year-old dad of two opened up about how his faith keeps him grounded in a fast-paced industry.

A Journey of Faith: How Mario Found Meaning in the Holy Land

Mario may have spent years rubbing elbows with celebrities around the globe, but it wasn’t until this past March that he took what he calls "the trip of a lifetime." The devout Catholic embarked on a pilgrimage to Israel, a destination that had long been on his bucket list. "Israel was always somewhere I wanted to visit," Mario revealed to In Touch. "I wanted to see where Jesus used to hang out, you know? Where he walked, where he lived, and where he taught." This spiritual journey culminated in an unforgettable moment when Mario was baptized in the Jordan River, a place steeped in biblical history.

Mario and his family.

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Faith in Action: Why Mario Isn't Afraid to Share His Beliefs

For Mario, being open about his faith isn't just something he does occasionally—it's a way of life. Despite the often polarizing nature of discussing religion, Mario isn't shy about sharing his beliefs. "People always say, 'Don't talk about politics or faith,' but I'm proud to talk about my faith if someone asks," he said. "It's such a big part of who I am, and it shapes everything I do." Mario also emphasized the importance of respecting others' beliefs. "I respect and appreciate all faiths," he added. "I think they're all aiming for the same goal, just taking different paths to get there. And I think people who are passionate about their faith can really appreciate someone else who's passionate about theirs."

Family First: Balancing Fame with Faith and Fatherhood

As a father to Gia, 7, and Dominic, 4, with his wife Courtney, Mario knows the value of keeping family at the center of his life. His role as a dad has only strengthened his commitment to living authentically and staying true to his values. Whether it's through his work, his travels, or his personal life, Mario continues to inspire others by showing that you can be both successful and deeply rooted in faith.