Faith Over Fame? Denzel Washington’s Bold Move Will Surprise You!

Denzel Washington has added another significant chapter to his storied life. On Saturday, the 69-year-old actor, celebrated for his role in Gladiator II, was baptized at Kelly Temple in New York City, marking a profound spiritual milestone. Alongside his baptism, Washington also received his minister’s license, signaling a deepened commitment to his faith.

Denzel Washington was baptized at the Kelly Temple in New York City and received his minister’s license.

During the baptism on Saturday, the “Training Day actor spoke to the congregation about his faith before he was immersed in water.

Before being immersed in water, Washington addressed the congregation with heartfelt words about his spiritual journey.

“It took a while, but I’m finally here,” he shared, as noted by Archbishop Christopher Bryant. “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”

A Family’s Pride

Washington’s wife of 41 years, Pauletta Washington, also expressed her pride and admiration for her husband’s decision. Standing by him during this transformative moment, she reflected on their shared journey of faith.

“If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit,” he said.

Denzel’s wife, Pauletta Washington, also spoke about how proud she was of her husband of 41 years taking this big step in his religion.

“Forty-six years later, here I’m still standing next to him as only God will have it,” Pauletta said. Their enduring partnership has also been a foundation for their family, which includes their children: John, 40; Katia, 37; and twins Olivia and Malcolm, 33.

“So, I’m very proud of you,” she continued. “You are the head of our house and you have set a great example for our children, who are now adult children who know the difference because we have shown them the difference.”

As she spoke, Denzel, seated on the pulpit steps, appeared visibly moved, wiping away tears.

The Oscar winner was submerged underwater during the baptism.

A Moment Captured in Time

Dressed casually in a gray T-shirt and black sweatpants, Washington proudly posed with his minister’s license and baptism certificate. The photograph, a simple yet powerful testament to his faith, symbolized a new chapter in his life.

Faith in Hollywood: An Unconventional Stance

This spiritual milestone comes shortly after Washington spoke candidly about his beliefs and the challenges of openly discussing faith in Hollywood. In a recent interview with Esquire, the Training Day star didn’t hold back on his views.

“When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and savior. I’m unafraid,” he said. “I don’t care what anyone thinks.”

Washington acknowledged the unspoken rules in Hollywood, suggesting that discussing religion is often met with skepticism.

“You can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this town,” he added. “I’m free now. It’s not talked about in this town. It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe.”

Last month, Denzel spoke about religion in Hollywood. Stuart Hardy/ABACAPRESS.COM/Shutterstock

“It’s not talked about in this town. … It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy,” he said during an interview with Esquire. Getty Images for SiriusXM

Dispelling the Hollywood Illusion

The Oscar-winning actor further challenged the idea of a monolithic “Hollywood” culture.

“What does that even mean? That to me means a street called Hollywood Boulevard. It’s not like we all meet somewhere and discuss what we believe,” he said.

With his characteristic candor, Washington dismissed the notion of a pervasive industry culture, joking, “There’s no Church Actor Meetings I’ve been to.”

A Lasting Legacy of Faith

Denzel Washington’s baptism and his embrace of ministry serve as a bold statement in a world often reluctant to discuss faith openly. For the acclaimed actor, this moment is not just about personal growth but also a reflection of the values he holds dear — values he hopes to share with his family and inspire in others.