Legendary actor Denzel Washington was baptized and officially ordained as a minister Saturday at the Kelly Temple in New York City.
Washington addressed the congregation before he was immersed in water as cameras captured the moment that he reaffirmed his faith and dedicated his life to serving God, Archbishop Christopher Bryant told Page Six.
“It took a while, but I’m finally here,” Washington said. “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”
The video showed him with his hands raised in prayer as he was baptized and issued his minister’s license.
The 69-year-old star was seen wearing a floor-length white robe in the video. He crossed his arms over his chest as he was dunked in the water.
“In accordance with the great head of the church, we baptize you, my brother, in the name of the brother, and of the son and of the holy spirit,” the church representative said.
Washington tilted his head forward, seemingly overtaken by emotion as he stood surrounded in prayer as church music played to commemorate the occasion.
The famous actor juxtaposed his career with his religion, saying that he had been nominated for many awards, before being told that “man gives the award, God gives the reward.” He put his life’s purpose in perspective by sharing a story form his childhood. He told the congregation that 50 years ago it was prophesized that he would preach to millions, and he was now in a position to do so.
Dressed in a plain grey t-shirt and sweatpants, he posed with his minster’s license and baptismal certificate. (RELATED: Denzel Washington Walks Back His Words After ‘Gladiator’ Director Calls Him Out)
“God is good all the time. God is with us when we’re not with him. He’s for us when we’re not for Him, He watches us when don’t watch Him, He protects us when we don’t protect ourselves. And He gives to us when we don’t deserve. So, I’m thankful for all that God has given me in 70 years,” Washington said.
