Legendary actor Denzel Washington receives New York church priest license

NEW YORK – As he approaches his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to his already impressive resume.

The legendary actor recently received his priest’s license and was baptized at a church ceremony in Harlem.

“It took a while, but I’m here.”

There is fame and belief, and Washington has both in abundance. It was an emotional moment for the 69-year-old star as he received his license at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ on Saturday.

“It took a while, but I’m here,” Washington said.

In his remarks, Washington recalled a prediction made about him when he was just 20 years old.

“Mrs. Ruth Green was known to have the gift of prophecy – some of you have heard this story. And she prophesied and said, ‘Boy, you’re going to travel around the world and preach to millions of people.’ “If he can do that for me, there’s nothing he can’t do for you,” Washington said.

Washington’s wife Pauletta attended the ceremony. They married in 1983. The priest’s license allows him to be ordained a priest at a later date.

“He is like a brother to me”

Church deacon Arthur Dean told CBS News New York he was proud.

“He is like a brother to me. He was a little boy when he was here. He stayed here. This is his home,” Dean said. “A really big blessing for us.”

The fans on site were equally moved.

“It’s a positive action that he’s taking and it’s his personal decision and I support it,” said fan Melony Rosario of Harlem.

“It was very random to see, but I was happy to see it was true,” said a man named Ross.

Washington will soon be back on Broadway

Washington is returning from a press tour for “Gladiator II” and He will be seen in “Othello” on Broadway in early 2025. The Washington Shakespeare revival will take place at the Barrymore Theater with performances beginning February 24th.

And now Washington’s influence has grown, spreading from the theater district and movie screens to Uptown and beyond.

“When you become a minister you have words for the public, words for everyone. You have to reach people even more than in Hollywood,” Dean said.

Washington’s father was a pastor and the Oscar and Tony Award-winning actor told the congregation all he can do, all he will do for God.