New York – As he approaches his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to his already impressive resume.
The legendary actor recently received his minister’s license at a church ceremony in Harlem where he was also baptized.
“It took a while, but I’m here.”
There is fame and there is faith, and Washington has an abundance of both. It was an emotional moment for the 69-year-old star when he received his license on Saturday at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ.
“It took a while, but I’m here,” Washington said.
In his statements, Washington recalled a prediction made about him when he was only 20 years old.
“Miss. Ruth Green is known to have the gift of prophecy, and some of you have heard this story. She prophesied and said, ‘Boy, you are going to travel the world and preach to millions of people.’ If he can do this for me, there’s nothing,” Washington said. He can’t do it for you.
Washington was joined at the ceremony by his wife, Pauletta. They married in 1983. The minister’s license will allow him to be ordained at a later date.
“He’s like a brother to me”
Church deacon Arthur Dean told CBS News New York he was proud.
“He’s like a brother to me. He was a little kid when he was here. He stayed here. This is his home,” Dean said. “A very big blessing for us.”
Local fans were equally affected.
“It’s a positive action he’s taking and it’s his personal choice and I support it,” said Melonie Rosario of Harlem.
“It was so random, but I was happy to see it was true,” said a man named Ross.
Washington will be on Broadway again soon
Washington exits press tour for “Gladiator II” and… He will star on Broadway in “Othello” in early 2025. Washington Shakespeare’s play will be revived at the Barrymore Theatre, with performances scheduled to begin February 24.
Now, Washington’s influence has grown, spreading from the theater district and movie screens, uptown and beyond.
“When you become a minister, you have words for the public, words for everyone. You have to connect with people more than being in Hollywood,” Dean said.
Washington’s father was a pastor, and the Oscar- and Tony Award-winning actor told the congregation that anything and everything he could do, he would do for God.
