Facebook co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a post on his social media network that while he once questioned his Jewish upbringing, he now believes that “religion is very important.”

The post came after he wished his followers a “Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah” on December 25, according to reports over the weekend.

Zuckerberg once identified himself as an atheist.

In response to a comment which said “But aren’t you an atheist,” Zuckerberg replied: “No. I was raised Jewish and then I went through a period where I questioned things, but now I believe religion is very important.”

Below is his FB post:

“Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah from Priscilla, Max, Beast and me!

“Seeing the moments of joy and family shared on Facebook today is one of my favorite things about our community.

“I hope you’re surrounded by friends and loved ones, and that you have a chance to reflect on all the meaningful things in your life.

“May the light of your friendships continue to brighten your life and our entire world”.

Zuckerberg’s wife, Priscilla Chan, practices Buddhism. The couple met with Pope Francis at the Vatican last summer.

Photo: AFP