Denzel Washington has embraced a new chapter in his spiritual journey, marking a significant milestone in his life.
The 69-year-old actor, known for his powerful performances in movies like Training Day and Gladiator II, was baptized on Saturday, December 21, at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in Harlem, New York City. During the ceremony, which was live-streamed on Facebook by the First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ Eastern New York, Denzel was also presented with a minister’s license, a step that paves the way for future ordination.
Addressing the congregation, Denzel reflected on his faith and the timing of this transformative moment, just days ahead of his 70th birthday. “In one week, I turn 70,” he shared, as quoted by Archbishop Christopher Bryant. “It took a while, but I’m here.”
He continued with a heartfelt message of encouragement, saying, “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.” His words resonated with the audience, highlighting the depth of his spiritual commitment.
Denzel’s wife, Pauletta Washington, was also present to support her husband on this momentous occasion. With tears of pride and joy, she spoke about his unwavering faith and the impact it has had on their family. “Forty-six years later, here I’m still standing next to him as only God will have it,” Pauletta said.
“You are the head of our house, and you have set a great example for our children, who are now adult children and know the difference because we have shown them the difference.” Her moving words underscored the unity and faith that have been central to their marriage.
The baptism ceremony featured the traditional immersion in water, symbolizing renewal and dedication to faith. Afterward, Denzel posed for photos, proudly holding his minister license and certificate of baptism. The moment marked a public declaration of his commitment to his spiritual path, a journey that has been years in the making.
This baptism comes shortly after Denzel shared his thoughts on religion in Hollywood in a personal essay for Esquire, published on November 19. He reflected on a pivotal experience at the Pentecostal West Angeles Church in Los Angeles, which he attended at the suggestion of actor and director Robert Townsend.
Recalling the moment, he described it as “the biggest moment of my life” when he was “filled with the Holy Spirit.” This transformative event cemented his faith and fueled his dedication to his spiritual mission.
In the essay, Denzel also spoke candidly about the challenges of openly discussing religion in the entertainment industry, describing it as “unfashionable” among Hollywood peers.
“Things I said about God when I was a little boy, just reciting them in church along with everybody else, I know now. God is real. God is love. God is the only way,” he wrote. “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.”
Denzel’s boldness in proclaiming his faith has set him apart in an industry where such expressions are often frowned upon. “I’m unafraid. I don’t care what anyone thinks,” he stated.
“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.” His words underscore the courage it takes to prioritize faith in a world often driven by image and acclaim.
Although Denzel is not yet an ordained minister, he joins a growing list of celebrities who have pursued ministerial roles. According to the Universal Life Church’s database, Hollywood stars such as Adele, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cardi B, Kathy Griffin, Whoopi Goldberg, Dwayne Johnson, and Tom Hanks have also embraced the path of ministry.
For Denzel, this new chapter is not just a personal milestone but a public testament to his enduring faith and commitment to living a life guided by spiritual principles.
