NEW YORK — As his 70th birthday approaches, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to an already impressive resume.
The legendary actor recently received a minister’s license in a ceremony at the Harlem church, where he was also baptized.
“It took a while, but I’m here”
There is fame and faith, and Washington is full of both. It was an emotional moment for the 69-year-old star when he received his license Saturday at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ.
“It took a while, but I’m here,” Washington said.
In his remarks, Washington recalled a prediction made about him when he was just 20 years old.
“Mrs. Ruth Green was known for having the gift of prophecy – some of you have heard this story. And she prophesied and said, ‘Boy, you are going to travel the world and preach to millions of people.’ If he can do that for me, there’s nothing he can’t do for you,” Washington said.
During the ceremony, Washington was accompanied by his wife, Pauletta. They were 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 boy when he was here. He stayed here. This is his home,” Dean said. “A very big blessing for us.”
The local fans were also moved.
“It’s a positive action he’s taking, it’s his personal choice and I support him,” Harlem fan Melony Rosario said.
“It was very random to see, but I was happy to see that it’s true,” said a man named Ross.
Washington will soon return to Broadway
Washington just did a press tour for “Gladiator II” and he will play on Broadway in “Othello” in early 2025. The revival of Washington Shakespeare will take place at the Barrymore Theater, with performances scheduled to begin February 24.
And now Washington’s influence has grown, extending from the theater district and movie screens, to Uptown and beyond.
“When you become a minister, you have words for the public, words for everyone. You have to reach people even more than if you were in Hollywood,” Dean said.
Washington’s father was a pastor, and the Academy Award and Tony Award-winning actor told the congregation that anything he could do, he would do for God.
