- Veteran actor baptized in New York, reflects on prophetic encounter from his youth
- Washington speaks out about faith in Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of belief
Veteran Hollywood actor Denzel Washington publicly dedicated his life to Christ and was baptized over the weekend at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in Harlem, New York City. The 69-year-old actor also received a minister’s license, paving the way for possible ordination in the future.
Reflecting on the momentous occasion, Washington shared, “In one week, I turn 70. It took a while, but I’m here.” During the service, he recalled a significant encounter from when he was 20 years old. Sitting in his mother’s beauty salon, Washington met a woman named Ruth Green, who prophesied that he would travel the world and preach to millions. “She said, ‘Boy, you are going to travel the world and preach to millions of people,’” Washington remembered. “Fifty years later, look at God. If He can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”
Later, he gave a heartfelt tribute, saying, “To God be the glory. Hallelujah! Anything I can do, I will do for this church, the Almighty. I just want to be in that number when the saints go marching in.”
Archbishop Christopher Bryant baptized Washington during the ceremony, and Bryant later shared images of the event on Facebook, expressing joy over Washington’s new role as a minister. “We celebrate the addition of Minister Denzel Washington into the clergy, having received his minister’s license today, in a truly uplifting moment,” Bryant wrote.
Washington, who recently starred in Gladiator II, also opened up about the challenges of discussing religion in Hollywood. In an interview with Esquire, he explained, “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 continued, “You can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. It’s not talked about in this town. It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy.”
While the actor admitted he doesn’t know how many of his colleagues share his faith, he emphasized the importance of believing in God. “There’s no such thing called Hollywood anyway. What does that even mean? That to me means a street called Hollywood Boulevard,” Washington added.
