Denzel Washington, the iconic 69-year-old actor, has stepped into a meaningful new chapter in his life by becoming a licensed minister. Over the weekend, Washington was baptized by Archbishop Christopher Bryant at the historic Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ, located in New York City.
“It’s taken some time, but I’ve finally made it here,” Washington shared with the congregation, according to Bryant. “If God can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky truly is the limit.”
Archbishop Bryant posted photos of this heartfelt moment on social media, celebrating Washington’s spiritual journey. In his post, Bryant wrote, “Today, we welcome Minister Denzel Washington into the clergy, having received his minister’s license in the Church of God in Christ. It was a deeply moving experience.”
Bryant explained that Washington’s attire during the ceremony reflected the dual significance of the occasion. Alongside receiving his minister’s license, Washington was also baptized. “Both his baptism and licensing were held at Kelly Temple, a place that holds a special place in his heart. As a child, Denzel attended this church and later testified about being filled with the Holy Spirit after visiting another church in the 1980s with actor Robert Townsend,” Bryant shared.
Washington’s recent commitment to faith is a culmination of a lifetime of belief and personal growth. Bryant praised the actor’s decision, saying, “Denzel Washington’s baptism and ministerial licensing represent a powerful moment in his faith journey.”
Over the years, Washington has been open about his spiritual beliefs, though he admits that discussing religion in the entertainment industry can be challenging. In a heartfelt piece for Esquire, Washington wrote, “When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my Lord and Savior. I’m unafraid.”
He went on to reflect on the difficulties of talking about faith in Hollywood, saying, “It’s not a topic people openly discuss in this industry. You can’t talk like that and win Oscars or go to the big parties. But for me, I’m free now. Hollywood doesn’t define me, and I’m not worried about what people think.”
The Academy Award-winning actor also mentioned how isolating it can feel not knowing how many of his peers share similar beliefs. “I haven’t taken a poll or attended any Church Actor Meetings. So, I don’t know how many actors have faith, but I know what I believe.”
Denzel Washington’s career began to take off in 1982 when he landed a breakthrough role in the TV medical drama “St. Elsewhere.” From there, he went on to become one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, starring in iconic films like “Training Day,” “Fences,” “Malcolm X,” “The Book of Eli,” and “Cry Freedom.”
Now, as he embraces his role as a minister, Washington adds another dimension to his legacy—one that reflects his deep commitment to faith and service.
