Denzel Washington just reached a major milestone in his faith journey. The Oscar-winning actor was baptized and received his minister’s license during a special service in New York.
The ceremony took place on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ. Washington reflected on his spiritual journey as he prepared for baptism.
“I turn 70 in one week,” Washington said during the service. “It took a while, but I’m here.”
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Washington’s family, including his wife Pauletta, attended the ceremony. During the service, Pauletta expressed how proud she was of her husband, bringing Washington to tears.
The milestone aligns with Washington’s recent comments about faith in Hollywood. In an essay for Esquire published last month, he said, “It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But it’s my job to lift God up, to give Him praise, to make sure that anyone and everyone I speak to the rest of my life understands that He is responsible for me.”
Washington acknowledged that faith may not be discussed in Hollywood very often but emphasized that this doesn’t mean people in the industry lack belief.
As the service concluded, Washington shared a story from 30 years ago, when a woman had prophesied he would one day preach to millions. Reflecting on this moment, Washington vowed to do everything he could to support the church that helped make his spiritual milestone possible.
Washington’s faith journey highlights his commitment to spreading a message of hope and belief.
[KENNEDY FELTON]
From “Training Day” to ordained day… Denzel Washington is proving double features aren’t just meant for the big screen.
The Oscar-winning actor marked a major milestone in his faith journey, getting baptized and receiving his minister’s license all in one day!
It all took place Saturday at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in New York.
Washington spoke emotionally as he reflected on his spiritual journey.
“In one week I turn 70. One week from today. It took a while, but I’m here.”
His family was in attendance for the occasion, including his wife, Pauletta, who spoke proudly of her husband as he wiped away tears.
This all comes after Washington shared his views on faith in Hollywood in an Esquire essay published last month, saying, “It’s my job to lift God up, to give Him praise, to make sure that anyone and everyone I speak to the rest of my life understands that He is responsible for me.” While he believes faith isn’t often discussed in Hollywood, he added it doesn’t mean it’s not present.
Closing out the service Saturday, Washington shared a story from 30 years ago about a woman who prophesied he would one day preach to millions. He vowed to do whatever he can to support the church that made this possible.
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