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Who is Pastor Judah Smith? Internet labels Justin Bieber pastor, Judah Smith, 'scam artist' at Super Bowl LVIII

Judah Smith has built Churchome into a sizable organization that is adored by many celebrities, but he has also been involved in his fair share of scandals

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA: Amid the glittering lights of Sin City, Justin Bieber brings his faith to Wynn Las Vegas. Joined by his wife Hailey Bieber, the singer is seen strolling with his confidant, Pastor Judah Smith, their camaraderie evident with Judah's reassuring arm around Justin. This dynamic duo has shared moments throughout the past decade, capturing their evolving friendship. A twinning appearance, from beanies to glasses, marks their strong bond.

TMZ-shared photos sparked fan reactions, with some playfully trolling the duo attending Super Bowl LVIII, one user commented, "With his stalker right behind him." Another user chimed in, "Justin probably needs someone to keep him out of trouble."

One user commented, "Hillsong 2.O SMH." A fourth user wrote, "Why is Justin always so touchy-feely with his pastors?? and this guy has a very Pastor Carl vibe."

A person also asked, "What a pastor doing in Vegas ?????" "Another scam artist smh@justinbieber u are enough," quipped another.

Judah has seamlessly integrated into Hollywood, transforming his father's modest Seattle-based church into a massive organization embraced by celebrities. He challenges the boundaries of "organized religion," questioning old-fashioned "customs and traditions" he deems "not essential for a life of faith." Catering openly to "Gen Z and millennials," he pioneers online church services via a successful app. Churchome's distinct beliefs and ties to the affluent and famous resonate with younger generations, amassing a substantial following both in person and online.

Why did Judah Smith become Justin Bieber's pastor?

When Hillsong pastor Carl Lentz faced expulsion for infidelity, the shock rippled beyond the congregation. Co-founding Hillsong in 2010, he turned it into a celebrity-favored megachurch, earning an iconic status with a massive social media following. His ties with Hollywood's elite, including Justin, who considered him a "second father," added to his allure. 

However, Carl's pristine image crumbled with the revelation of his affair in 2020. Justin distanced himself, eventually leaving Hillsong, and other celebrity associates followed suit. Now, three years later, Justin seems to have found a new pastor in Judah, though not without controversy.

Pastor Judah Smith embroiled in controversies

Judah, like Carl, carries some controversy. Accused of homophobia for equating homosexuality to "sin" comparable to "rape and murder," he faced backlash. His church faced criticism for associating with someone accused of rape, and allegations emerged of sheltering abusers, advising against reporting sexual assault. A Churchome employee sued, claiming mandatory donations or job risk. With a history of scandals and legal issues, Judah seems an unconventional choice for Justin post-Carl's discredited tenure.

How did Justin Bieber meet Pastor Judah Smith?

As it happened, Justin and Judah had a close relationship even before the singer became well-known. Justin's mother was a great admirer of Judah's lessons and would even play them for him when he was a little child.

Known as "one of the most influential Christian congregations in Hollywood," Churchome had grown to five sites in Washington and California by 2019, bringing in millions of dollars in revenue from its more than 10,000 weekly members. His relationship with Justin established long before the 'Love Yourself' singer rose to fame, undoubtedly helped.

As Judah was establishing his Churchome empire, he drew the attention of a young single mom called Pattie Mallette. Pattie brought her son, who was eight at the time, to watch Judah speak at a Toronto event in 1999.

And one of the world's most popular artists would eventually grow up to be that young child. It's been reported that Pattie bought several cassette tapes with recordings of Judah speaking, and she would play them for Justin "every night" before he went to bed.

When Pattie's career took off years later, she contacted Judah and his wife to see if they would be interested in seeing him perform live.

Justin and Judah clicked right away, and they've been "brothers" ever since. Interestingly, Judah was the one who connected the singer with Carl.