NEW YORK — Approaching his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to an already impressive resume.
The legendary actor was recently licensed as a minister at a church ceremony in Harlem where he was also baptized.
“It took a while, but I’m here”
There is fame and faith, and Washington has plenty 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.
“It took a while, but I’m here,” Washington said.
In his remarks, Washington recalled a prediction made about him when he was only 20 years old.
“Mrs. Ruth Green was known to have the gift of prophecy; some of you have heard this story. And she prophesied and said, ‘Boy, you’re going to travel around the world and preach to millions of people.’ If she can do this for me , there’s nothing I can’t do for you,” Washington said.
At the ceremony, Washington was joined by his wife, Pauletta. They were married in 1983. The minister’s license will allow him to be ordained at a future date.
“He’s like a brother to me”
Church deacon Arthur Dean told CBS News New York that he is 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 great blessing for us.”
The home fans were equally excited.
“It’s a positive action that she’s taking and it’s her personal choice and I support her,” said fan Melony Rosario of Harlem.
“It was very random to see, but I was glad to see it’s true,” said a man named Ross.
Washington will be back on Broadway soon
Washington arrives from a press tour for “Gladiator II” and will star on Broadway in “Othello” in early 2025. The Washington Shakespeare revival will be at the Barrymore Theatre, with performances beginning on February 24.
And now, Washington’s influence has grown, from the theater district and movie screens, Uptown and beyond.
“When you become a minister, you have words for the public, words for everybody. You have to reach people even more than being in Hollywood,” Dean said.
Washington’s father had been a pastor, and the Academy and Tony Award-winning actor told the congregation that anything and everything he can do, he will do it for God.
