Denzel Washington Baptized and Becomes Minister in Live Streamed Ceremony

Denzel Washington recently received baptism and became a minister. This pivotal moment occurred on Saturday, Dec. 21, at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in Harlem, New York City. At 69 years old, this event was not preparation for a film role but a personal milestone. He also received a ministerial license indicating potential ordination in the future.

Throughout the live-streamed ceremony, hosted by the First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ Eastern New York, Denzel shared his journey of faith. Dressed in a gray T-shirt and black sweatpants, he reflected on his spiritual path just days before turning 70. "In one week I turn 70," he stated. "It took a while but I'm here." He assured attendees, "If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit."

Pauletta Washington, Denzel's wife, was present, proudly honoring her husband's commitment to faith. Tearfully, she remarked on his spiritual journey and her pride in his decision. "Forty-six years later, here I’m still standing next to him as only God will have it," she shared. She praised him for being the head of their household and setting a positive example for their adult children.

After the baptism, Denzel posed for photographs with his certificate of baptism and minister license. The ceremony involved an immersion in baptismal water, marking a transformative experience for the actor.

The news of Denzel’s baptism follows his recent reflections on faith in Hollywood. He described religious expression in the entertainment industry as "unfashionable" in a first-person essay published on Nov. 19 in Esquire. Denzel recalled his life-changing visit to the Pentecostal West Angeles church in Los Angeles, encouraged by actor and director Robert Townsend. He described that moment as "the biggest moment of my life" when he felt filled with the Holy Spirit.

Denzel discussed how openly expressing faith is sometimes discouraged among peers in the industry. He emphasized the importance of faith in his life, stating, "God is real. God is love. God is the only way. God blesses." He expressed his responsibility to spread this message, proclaiming, "When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and savior." He maintained a fearless attitude, asserting, "I’m unafraid. I don’t care what anyone thinks," noting the challenges of discussing faith in his profession.

Although not yet an ordained minister, Denzel is among notable celebrities with similar spiritual journeys. Numerous Hollywood stars, including Adele, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cardi B, Kathy Griffin, Whoopi Goldberg, Dwayne Johnson, and Tom Hanks, are known ministers. Denzel’s commitment underscores a growing movement of artists heavily engaged with their faith experiences.

Earlier, SSP reported that Dwight Howard is engaged to rapper Amy Luciani.