Denzel Washington has taken on a new role in life, receiving his minister’s license at the age of 69.
The renowned actor recently acknowledged the challenges of discussing religion in Hollywood.
Fox News Digital reports that Washington was baptized by Archbishop Christopher Bryant at the Kelly Temple in New York City on Saturday. “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,” Washington said, according to Bryant. “The sky literally is the limit.”
Bryant shared photos of the moment Washington gave his life to Christ in a Facebook post, celebrating the addition of Minister Denzel Washington into the clergy, having received his minister’s license in the Church of God in Christ.
Washington admitted that discussing religion in the industry is challenging. “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” star wrote for Esquire. “I’m unafraid.”
He added, “I don’t care what anyone thinks. 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 fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe.”
Washington noted that the concept of “Hollywood” is merely a street name. He also expressed uncertainty about how many other actors believe in God, stating that there are no formal gatherings to discuss beliefs.
Washington’s career began with his breakthrough role in the medical drama “St. Elsewhere” in 1982. He earned multiple nominations for his work on the show and eventually transitioned to film. He is known for his performances in films such as “Fences,” “Training Day,” “The Book of Eli,” “Cry Freedom,” and “Malcolm X.”
