Worship leader and pastor William McDowell has released a deeply personal and powerful tribute honoring the life and legacy of gospel icon Ron Kenoly, describing him as "a father of modern praise and worship" and a spiritual architect behind his own calling.
Marking 25 years since he first began serving as Kenoly's music director and keyboardist, McDowell reflected on a mentorship that shaped not only his ministry but his identity. His first time traveling outside the United States was with Kenoly, offering him a front-row seat to global worship leadership marked by excellence, humility, and integrity.
"Traveling with him was an intentional season of preparation for what the Lord intended to do in my life," McDowell shared. Though he has since ministered in more than 50 nations, he credits Kenoly as the one who taught him how to travel, lead, and serve with purpose.
Kenoly's investment was never superficial. McDowell recalls overhearing him tell his mother, "He's special, so I'm intentional with him." That intentionality took shape in quiet mentoring moments, modeled discipline, and servant leadership long before McDowell ever stepped into widespread influence. Those who had the privilege of serving alongside Kenoly, McDowell says, were recipients of that same uncommon generosity.
The tribute also highlights Kenoly's behind-the-scenes faithfulness. During the early days of launching Deeper Church, McDowell held an interest meeting that drew only a handful of people. One of them was Ron Kenoly. Wanting to show his support, Kenoly attended simply to encourage him. Noticing the church lacked sound equipment, he returned to the next meeting early-without telling anyone-bringing his own sound system, setting it up himself, and allowing the church to use it until they could purchase their own.
"Our first sound guy was Ron Kenoly," McDowell said. "That's who he was. Always a servant."
One of McDowell's most treasured memories came not on a platform, but in Kenoly's home. Sitting at the piano, McDowell began playing "He's Been Good." Kenoly joined in singing-a song he had ministered around the world countless times. Yet in that private moment, tears flowed as he sang, revealing the depth of sincerity behind the anthem.
"He meant it," McDowell reflected.
Kenoly's influence transcended stages, albums, and accolades. He shaped worship culture, mentored generations of leaders, and modeled a life of quiet faithfulness. As McDowell concluded, "He left a mark on this world. He left a mark on me. This world is better because of him-and so am I."
Dr. Ron Kenoly's voice may be silent, but his legacy continues to resound in churches, leaders, and worshippers around the world.
