A Historic Tribute to
Pastor Phyllis Renae Kennedy
While others performed, Kennedy poured into purpose. She was a “Melody of Power,” harmonizing the heart of music ministry with the depth of worship leadership, impacting lives far beyond the walls of the church. Born May 29, 1957, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, her journey began early in song with the Prestonians Community Choir. After relocating to Houston, Texas, in 1973, her calling only grew stronger. By the age of 16, she was already leading as choir director at New Community Baptist Church, where she co-founded and organized the 100-voice ensemble, New Children of Christ, alongside Darryl Rushing—leaving a legacy of excellence, faith, and transformative worship.
01
Building a Foundation in Music Ministry
Pastor Phyllis Renae Kennedy expanded her early leadership in music by founding the Reborn Crusade Choir and the gospel group Anointed Power. Through these ministries, she cultivated a sound and spirit of worship that would become a defining mark of her calling.
02
Establishing a Worship Movement
Kennedy’s passion for unified praise led her to create the All Nations in Praise (A.N.I.P.) conference—a powerful gathering centered on worship and music. The conference produced several live recordings, including Let the Praises Go Up (2002), Thanks for Everything (2005), and It’s Praise Time in the House (2010), further extending her influence in gospel music.
03
Recording, Writing, and Collaborations
Continuing her musical journey, Kennedy composed numerous gospel songs and released albums such as I Am Determined and Gotta Keep on Moving. Her work included collaborations with respected gospel artists like John P. Kee. Beyond music, she also shared her voice through writing, publishing She Just Wanted to Preach and the devotional My Morning Worship and Meditation: 21 Days of Joy. Continuing her musical journey, Kennedy composed numerous gospel songs and released albums such as God is with you and Gotta Keep on Moving. Her work included collaborations with respected gospel artists like John P. Kee. Beyond music, she also shared her voice through writing, publishing She Just Wanted to Preach and the devotional My Morning Worship and Meditation: 21 Days of Joy.
04
Pastoral Leadership
In 2017, she stepped fully into pastoral leadership by founding Impartation Worship Center in Houston. As a pastor, Kennedy became known for her dynamic preaching, prophetic insight, and unwavering commitment to spiritual growth. Her ministry emphasized healing, deliverance, and the transformative power of God’s presence. She cultivated an atmosphere where individuals could encounter God personally, be restored, and discover their purpose.
Through teaching, counseling, and leadership development, she poured into the lives of her congregation—raising up leaders, empowering women in ministry, and guiding families through both spiritual and practical challenges. Her pastoral work extended beyond the pulpit, as she remained deeply involved in the lives of her members, offering wisdom, encouragement, and prayer.
Pastor Kennedy’s legacy as a shepherd is marked by her ability to blend worship with the Word—creating a ministry that not only inspired praise but produced lasting spiritual impact and community transformation.
