Denzel Washington publicly reaffirmed his faith last Saturday, December 21, in a deeply personal and spiritual ceremony at a Harlem church.
The iconic actor, who recently received a license to minister, was baptized at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ. The event, which drew significant attention, was live-streamed by the First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ Eastern New York, allowing audiences beyond the congregation to witness this profound moment.
Addressing the church, Washington, who turns 70 this week, reflected on his journey with humility and gratitude.
“It took a while, but I’m here,” he said, as shared by Archbishop Christopher Bryant via Page Six.
The Gladiator II star encouraged the audience with a message of hope and faith. “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”
His wife, Pauletta Washington, also spoke during the ceremony, offering heartfelt words about their shared faith and enduring partnership.
“Forty-six years later, here I am, still standing next to him as only God will have it,” she said. “I’m very proud of you. You are the head of our house and have set a great example for our children, who now know the difference because we’ve shown them the difference.”
This public declaration comes shortly after Washington opened up about his religious beliefs in an interview with Esquire. He spoke candidly about how his faith has consistently influenced his career choices, even in roles where morality takes a backseat.
“My faith has always informed the roles I choose. Always,” he said. “I’ve always been led by God, and most of my performances are faith-filled. Even if I was playing the devil.”
Washington reflected on his portrayal of morally complex characters, pointing to his Oscar-winning role in Training Day. “I still have my shooting script from Training Day, and I wrote on the cover: ‘The wages of sin is death.’ The wages of sin is death,” he revealed.
Now, as he takes on another villainous role in the upcoming Gladiator II, Washington continues to seek redemption in his storytelling. “Even in the darkest stories, I’m looking for the light,” he explained.
This latest milestone in Denzel Washington’s life serves as a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to sharing his spiritual journey, both on and off-screen.
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