Well, that didn't take long. Harsh criticisms of Jaci Velasquez' turn as a movie star, in the new comedy Chasing Papi, have already begun being published by watchdog publications. Two in particular -- Focus On the Family's Plugged In and Preview Family Movie & TV Review -- along with some fans' concerns, have drawn an indirect response from Velasquez herself.

Velasquez recently posted the following on her website (www.jacivelasquez.com):

I hear that there are many questions about the movie, especially now since people are seeing the trailer or previews out in theaters. To put your minds at rest, no I haven’t left my personal faith in God, and I don’t ever intend to. I have gained so much knowledge and experience while doing this movie and working with new people. There were very, very long, hard hours of practice and filming. There were also challenges relating to my personal convictions and beliefs. I feel like I was able by the grace and power of God to be a witness to co-workers during the filming of the movie. One day, during filming, one of the crew members went up to my mother and told her how refreshing it was to work with someone so positive... I am grateful for the production company, because they allowed me to change and edit several scenes that I was uncomfortable doing because of my beliefs. The process of deciding to enter Hollywood was a very thoughtful, prayerful one. I constantly consulted my family and pastor to make sure I was answering my calling.