He’s embracing ministry.
Denzel Washington, the Academy Award-winning actor, was baptized at The First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ in Eastern New York over the weekend, marking a significant moment in his spiritual journey. At 69, Washington was also officially granted his ministry license during the emotional service, which was streamed live on Facebook. Reflecting on his life, Washington shared that when he was 20 years old, a woman named Ruth Green prophesied that he would travel the world and preach to millions, a prediction he now sees as having come true.
Washington, who is known for being open about his Christian faith, grew up in a religious household. His father, the Rev. Denzel Hayes Washington Sr., was a Pentecostal minister, and his mother was actively involved in church life. In a recent Esquire essay, Washington described how, although he grew up in church, it wasn’t until later that he truly understood the significance of his faith. He recalled a pivotal moment at the West Angeles Church of God in Christ, where his understanding deepened, leading him to a stronger connection with God.
The actor has always been vocal about his beliefs, refusing to hide his faith despite the pressures of Hollywood. He has previously shared how he is unafraid of public judgment, emphasizing that he doesn’t care what others think when it comes to expressing his religious views. In a 2021 interview, Washington talked about the societal challenges we face, particularly in a divided world, and the importance of uplifting stories about faith, sacrifice, and heroism.
In addition to his public statements about his faith, Washington shared a deeply personal experience when he saw what he believed was the face of God in the clouds during a moment of prayer on a yacht. This experience, which he described as divine, reinforced his belief in God’s presence. He connected this moment to a Bible verse from 1 Corinthians, which speaks about seeing God face to face in the afterlife.
Washington’s baptism and ministry license are the latest milestones in a spiritual journey that has been intertwined with his life and career. His unwavering faith continues to be an important part of who he is, and he hopes his story will inspire others to reflect on their own spiritual paths.