Renowned Worship Leader Ron Kenoly Passes Away at 81
Ron Kenoly, a transformative figure in Christian worship music known for his powerful anthems and dedication to worship as a form of service, has passed away at the age of 81. His passing, which occurred on February 3, was shared through a collaborative Instagram post by Bruno Miranda, his long-time music director and close associate. The post did not specify the cause of death.
Miranda reflected on his relationship with Kenoly, stating, “For over 20 years, I had the honor of walking alongside him in ministry around the world, not just as his music director, but as a son, a student, and a witness to a life marked by faithfulness.” He emphasized Kenoly’s role as a worship leader who prioritized leading others into genuine worship rather than performing. “The worship he lived is now the worship he beholds,” Miranda added.
Kenoly was celebrated for his contributions to contemporary praise music, particularly with songs like “Ancient of Days,” “Anointing Fall On Me,” and “Jesus Is Alive.” His 1992 live album, Lift Him Up, became a landmark in worship music, known for its rapid sales and its influence on congregational worship through its scripture-rich lyrics.
Another notable album, Welcome Home, produced by Tom Brooks, achieved significant recognition, including being named Billboard’s top contemporary worship music album and winning the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Award for praise and worship album in 1997.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly’s journey in music began early. He moved to California after finishing high school to pursue a career in entertainment, later serving in the U.S. Air Force as part of a Top 40 cover band. Initially recording secular R&B under the name Ron Keith, Kenoly eventually transitioned to gospel music, releasing his first Christian album, You Ought to Listen to This, in 1983.
Kenoly dedicated himself to ministry at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, where he became the worship leader in 1985 and music pastor by 1987. He was ordained in 1987 and focused on teaching worship theology, eventually consulting with churches nationwide to develop worship ministries. He emphasized the importance of balance in worship, as he explained in a 2006 interview with Christian Today: “If you get all worship and no Word, you have fanaticism. If you have all Word and no worship, you have legalism.”
His academic achievements include a music degree from Alameda College, a Master of Divinity from Faith Bible College, and a Doctorate of Ministry in sacred music from Friends International Christian University. Church leaders across various denominations have acknowledged Kenoly’s impact on redefining congregational worship.
Following Kenoly’s passing, Pastor Tony Suarez took to social media to honor him as “one of the greatest psalmists of our time.” Suarez reminisced about a revival where Kenoly led a night of 1990s-style praise, describing him as “a generational gift” whose leadership in worship was profoundly impactful.
In 1999, Kenoly relocated to Central Florida, continuing his international ministry as a teacher, speaker, and worship leader. He also authored several books on worship in collaboration with Jubilee Christian Center founder Dick Bernal. Kenoly is survived by his family, with funeral arrangements yet to be announced.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
