NEW YORK — As he nears his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington is adding another sentence to his already impressive resume.
The legendary actor was recently awarded his pastor’s license in a ceremony at a church in Harlem, where he was also baptized.
“It took a while, but here we are.”
There’s fame and faith, and Washington has both in abundance. It was an emotional moment for the 69-year-old star as he received his license at Kelly Temple Christian Church of God on Saturday.
“It took a while, but we’re here,” Washington said.
In his remarks, Washington recalled a prophecy he made when he was just 20 years old.
“Ms. Ruth Greene was known for her gift of prophecy. Some of you may have heard this story. And she prophesied and said, ‘Hey, you’re the world. ‘If God can do this for me, there’s nothing you can’t do,’ Washington said.
Mr. Washington’s wife, Pauletta, also attended the ceremony. They married in 1983. The minister’s license allows him to be ordained in the future.
“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 just a boy when he was here. He stayed here. This is his home,” Dean said. “It’s a huge blessing for us.”
Local fans were equally impressed.
“This is a positive action he’s taking, it’s his personal choice, and I support it,” said Melony Rosario, a fan in Harlem.
“It was very random, but I was happy to find out it was true,” said a man named Ross.
Washington will be on Broadway again soon
Washington finishes press tour for “Gladiator II” He is scheduled to star in Broadway’s “Othello” in early 2025.. The Washington Shakespeare revival will take place at the Barrymore Theatre, with performances scheduled to begin on February 24th.
And now, Washington’s influence is expanding, spreading from the theater district, movie screens, and uptown.
“When you become a minister, you have a word for the people, a word for everyone. You have to reach more people than you can in Hollywood,” Dean said.
Washington’s father was a pastor, and the Academy Award and Tony Award-winning actor told the congregation that whatever he could do, he would do for God.
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