Ron Kenoly Passes On: The Man Who Amplified Praise Across the Nations

The world worship community is grieving the passing of Ron Kenoly, a trailblazer whose music not only filled the halls of worship but defined the way worship is expressed. Ron Kenoly, who passed away at 81, helped launch an era of worship music characterised by joy, movement, and bold worship, and he did it all long before worship music became a global phenomenon.

Long before the streaming charts and the worship music conferences, Ron Kenoly grasped something simple and powerful: worship music can be joyful and not lose its reverence. Ron Kenoly’s songs burst through the barriers of denomination and culture in the 1990s. *Lift Him Up* was his landmark album, which set the pace for all worship music albums and made songs such as *Ancient of Days* and *Jesus is Alive* part of the fabric of church worship all over the world.

Kenoly’s rise to the stage to offer worship was far from a predictable one. Born in Coffeyville, Kansas, and a former member of the U.S. Air Force, Kenoly began to cultivate his skills as an artist by entertaining fellow service members. This would lay the groundwork for a ministry that would be marked by excellence and great spiritual intent. Throughout more than four decades, he would go on to produce more than 20 albums, all with the same level of enthusiasm and commitment.

Kenoly’s life was also marked by a strong commitment to people. As a pastor and worship leader at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, Kenoly would mentor countless musicians on the importance of character and calling, just as much as ability. His impact is felt every time a congregation raises their voices in confident and joyful celebration.

As for details regarding funeral or memorial services, they have yet to be announced. However, Ron Kenoly’s legacy is already written in the songs that have been sung, hands raised in celebration, and hearts stirred throughout the world.