When actor Denzel Washington sat down with a retired pastor to discuss faith, he set the tone with a simple request: “Hey, why don’t we start with a prayer?”

In a new interview featured in the upcoming book “Witness to Belief: Conversations on Faith and Meaning,” Washington shares how his lifelong spiritual journey has evolved into a personal commitment to live by faith over fame, as Fox News reports.

Washington, 70, met with Rev. Russell Levenson for a candid conversation now included in Levenson’s latest book, to be released October 7 by Church Publishing. The book gathers interviews from twelve notable figures discussing the role of belief in their lives.

The interview marked a new season for both men: Washington reflecting on life at 70, and Levenson beginning retirement after more than three decades as an Episcopal priest. The actor’s desire to talk about faith set the stage for a discussion shaped by spiritual reflection, not celebrity.

Other contributors to the book include musician Amy Grant, renowned scientist Dr. Jane Goodall, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and actor Gary Sinise. Washington's section stands out for its raw personal insight and spiritual convictions.

Denzel recalls a prophecy from his youth

Washington recalled a defining moment from his youth. At 20, a woman named Ruth Green wrote a note telling him that he would one day speak to people around the world about God. Skeptical at the time, he later looked back with clarity.

He was struck by what seemed like an unusual encounter. “I was thinking, ‘Who is this crazy woman?’” he told Levenson. “But now I understand. The Lord has allowed me to get to the ears of a lot of people.”

His mother even added the word “Reverend” to the note, seeing potential in Green’s message and perhaps in her son’s future. Washington believes that prediction has come true, just not from a pulpit, but through influence.

From awards stages to faith stages

Though he's best known for his acting roles and accolades — such as his Oscar win at the 62nd Academy Awards in 1990 for "Glory" — Washington said his priorities have shifted. Spiritual purpose now matters far more than professional success.

In the interview, he said the things that once drove him — money, awards, possessions — have lost their pull. “I don’t want to make more money … don’t care about winning Oscars,” he said, adding that he now focuses on God taking charge of his life’s direction.

He emphasized that these changes didn't come overnight. It's a journey he's been on for decades, increasingly shaped by reading Scripture, praying daily, and attending worship with intent rather than routine.

Washington distances himself from modern pressures

Washington also touched on societal trends, criticizing the drive for validation through digital platforms. He voiced concern about the influence of social media and cancel culture, stating that a relationship with God is more meaningful than public approval.

Grant echoed a similar sentiment in her own section of the book, saying the idea that success or wealth could satisfy deeper needs is mistaken. She likened them to the temporary high people get from social media “likes.”

Washington’s critique wasn’t aimed at others but rooted in personal experience. He admitted that in earlier phases of his life, the pursuit of recognition felt significant — but today, he measures life’s value differently.

A quiet faith, not a public performance

Faith, according to Washington, should not be about outward rituals or visible piety. He stressed that it’s not about what one knows or how often they attend church, but about who they know — referring to God.

He recently took a public step in this spiritual journey by being baptized. Reflecting on the moment, he shared, “God has done a lot for me, but He will do a lot for anyone who trusts in Him.”

More than anything, Washington said he wants to be remembered simply as “a man of God.” But even that, he noted, involves a lifelong process of spiritual development, one that comes from spending time with God rather than seeking affirmation from others.

Reflection in a season of change

Washington’s interview came shortly before he made public appearances at major events such as the premiere of “Gladiator II” in Los Angeles in November 2024 and the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025. These appearances stood in contrast to the content of his private conversation with Levenson.

Although Washington remains in the public eye, his internal compass points elsewhere. He described his current approach to life as purposeful and deeply anchored in faith, noting that things have become clearer and simpler over time.

For Rev. Levenson, recently retired and entering a reflective stage himself, the conversation with Washington offered more than celebrity insight — it became a mutual exchange of belief between two men who value a life shaped by purpose rather than fame.