In the ever-blurring lines of showbiz and entertainment, a handful of trailblazers are rewriting the script of predictability. As cinephiles scrutinize the familiar and the new under the harsh glare of the spotlight, A-listers are increasingly taking the road less traveled. Denzel Washington’s surprise baptism, followed by his ordination as a minister, is the latest plot twist to captivate the fluid world of entertainment. 

Yet, for those familiar with the veteran actor’s family roots and faith, this unexpected turn is less of a shock than a natural progression.

Denzel Washington was recently baptized at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in New York City, followed by the official reception of his ministry license. The First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ livestreamed the service on Facebook. In an emotional declaration during his baptism ceremony, Washington stated, “It took me a while, but I’m here.” The actor added that though the glitz, glamor, and wealth may be exhausted in time, Christ is forever.

According to Washington, currently a member of the West Angeles Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles, this licentiate marked his “greatest accomplishment” so far. His wife, Pauletta Washington, also celebrated his baptism with a moving speech, showering the actor with gratitude for setting an example for their children. Washington shared an anecdote from when he was 20 years old, sitting at his mother’s beauty parlor when she prophesied he would travel the world and “preach to millions of people” one day.

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Although this turnaround may seem a surprise for many, Denzel Washington opened up about his spiritual journey in an interview previously.

In a November interview with Esquire, Denzel Washington recounted growing up going to church. The actor recalled how people would show up for “altar calls” and get “saved” but in his youth, he did not really understand the concept. He said the “biggest moment” of his life was at the West Angeles Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles when actor and director Robert Townsend showed him the way.

“It’s my job to life God up, to give him praise,” Washington stated, mindfully holding the almighty responsible for him. Washington has been an actor who is unafraid and unflinching in many ways. And speaking of a public reaction to his faith, he only affirmed that he does not “care what anyone thinks.” While he believes “fear” is inherent, whether it comes to faith or limelight exposure, Washington refuses to trap himself in that in both his life and career.

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