Denzel Washington Becomes Minister After Calling Out Hollywood

Denzel Washington takes on a new role as a minister, speaking out about how religion is rarely discussed in Hollywood and embracing his faith publicly. 🌐 #News #LosAngelesCA #California #Faith

LOS ANGELES, CA – Denzel Washington, the Oscar-winning actor known for his powerful performances, has stepped into a new role—this time, as a minister. The 69-year-old star recently received his minister’s license in a ceremony at the historic Kelly Temple in New York City, marking a significant shift in his life. This move follows Washington’s candid remarks about the challenges of discussing faith in California‘s entertainment industry, where he claims religion is rarely addressed openly.

Washington’s New Role: Minister and Advocate of Faith

In a ceremony held on Saturday at Kelly Temple, Washington was baptized by Archbishop Christopher Bryant and officially licensed as a minister. The actor, dressed in baptismal attire, shared an inspiring message with those present, emphasizing the power of faith.

“It took a while, but I’m finally here…If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you,” Washington said, according to Bryant. “The sky literally is the limit.”

Bryant also posted on Facebook, celebrating Washington’s new role in the clergy.

“We celebrate the addition of Minister Denzel Washington into the clergy, having received his minister’s license in the Church of God in Christ today, in a truly uplifting moment,” Bryant wrote.

He added that both the baptism and the licensing ceremony took place at Kelly Temple, a place close to Washington’s heart. The actor attended the church as a child and later experienced a spiritual awakening in the 1980s after attending another church with actor Robert Townsend.

Washington Speaks on Religion and Hollywood’s Silence

Washington has been outspoken about the role religion plays—or rather, does not play—in Hollywood.

In a recent interview with Esquire, he revealed the challenges of openly discussing faith in the entertainment industry. “When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and savior,” Washington explained. “I’m unafraid.”

However, he was also candid about how faith is rarely discussed in the film industry, saying, “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.”

Washington emphasized that faith isn’t a topic Hollywood embraces.

“It’s not talked about. It’s not talked about. It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe. There’s no such thing called Hollywood anyway. What does that even mean? That to me means a street called Hollywood Boulevard,” he added.

A Long-Standing Faith Journey

For Washington, this new chapter is the culmination of a lifetime of faith. His spiritual journey began long before his rise to fame. The actor recalled a pivotal moment in the 1980s when he was filled with the Holy Spirit after visiting a church with Robert Townsend. This transformative experience laid the foundation for his deep commitment to his Christian faith.

Despite his faith, Washington remains unsure how many of his peers in Hollywood share similar beliefs. “It’s not like we all meet somewhere and discuss what we believe,” he said.

“So, I don’t know how many other actors have faith. I didn’t do no poll. How would I find that out? I mean, there’s no Church Actor Meetings I’ve been to.”

Washington’s decision to embrace ministry further solidifies his dedication to living out his faith. His journey from actor to minister reflects a powerful transformation that will inspire many, especially those in the entertainment world who may feel pressure to hide their own spiritual beliefs.

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