Hollywood veteran actor, Denzel Washington has officially become a gospel minister, after receiving his minister’s license at 69.
The Academy Award-winning actor was baptized on Saturday, 21st December 2024 at Kelly Temple in New York City by Archbishop Christopher Bryant.
Following the sacred ceremony, Washington shared a heartfelt message, expressing profound gratitude and reaffirming his faith. He said,
“It took a while, but I’m finally here. If God can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”
Archbishop Christopher Bryant, who officiated the ceremony, took to Facebook to celebrate the momentous occasion. He lauded Denzel’s decision to dedicate his life to Christ and step into the clergy within the Church of God in Christ.
“We celebrate the addition of Minister Denzel Washington into the clergy, having received his minister’s license in the Church of God in Christ today, in a truly uplifting moment.”
It is worth noting that Denzel has been vocal about his Christian faith for years, often acknowledging the challenges of openly expressing religious beliefs within the Hollywood landscape.
In a recent interview with Esquire, Denzel shed light on how religion is often considered a taboo topic in the entertainment industry. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that his faith remains the cornerstone of his identity.
While Denzel remains uncertain about how many of his Hollywood peers share his beliefs, he firmly stated that his faith is an integral part of his life and identity.
“When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and savior,” the “Gladiator II.
“I’m unafraid. “I don’t care what anyone thinks. See, talking about the fear part of it – you can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this town.
“I’m free now. It’s not talked about in this town. It’s not talked about. It’s not talked about. It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe.
“There’s no such thing called Hollywood anyway. What does that even mean? That to me means a street called Hollywood Boulevard.”
Washington’s illustrious career spans over four decades, marked by iconic performances in films like Malcolm X, Training Day, The Book of Eli, and Fences. His rise to stardom began with the TV series St. Elsewhere in 1982, which paved the way for his celebrated journey in cinema.
Read Also: I haven’t auditioned for a role in 40 years- Denzel Washington