Award Nominated Recording Artist and Inspirational Performer, Motivational and Liturgical Speaker, NPM Certified Cantor Colleague - Dr. Mel Kennedy uses her gifts of an extraordinary voice, dynamic presentation, and infectious spirituality to capture the hearts of those who hear her. Mel shares sacred scripture, heart-warming songs, and personal and humorous stories to engage her audience with an authentic faith experience. In addition to her live presentations and performances, Mel has released five contemporary Christian CDs. Mel's ministry is about empowering and encouraging men and women to share their faith and radiate God's love through liturgy, service, relationship, and the simple actions of day to day life.
Dr. Mel Kennedy is a musicianary (musician & missionary) award-nominated recording artist, liturgical trainer, and inspirational speaker. Through song, story, scripture, and prayer, Mel brings the gospel message into the hearts of those who hear her.
She earned her Doctor of Ministry in Applied Ministries from Graduate Theological Foundation. Mel holds an M.A. in Liturgical Ministry and Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Studies from Catholic Theological Union, Chicago. Her B.A. in Business Administration is from California State University, Fullerton. She is a National Association of Pastoral Musicians Certified Cantor Colleague.
Mel has released five Christian Music CDs that have been nominated for multiple awards: 2010 Unity Award Spanish Album of the Year, Liturgical Song of the Year, and Devotional Song of the Year; 2008 Unity Award Liturgical Song of the Year; 2007 Momentum Award Song of the Year; and 2007 Momentum Award Artist of the Year.
Her ministry is about empowering and inspiring men and women to share their faith and radiate God's love through liturgy, service, relationship, and the simple actions of day to day life. Some of her most popular talks are:
The Road Ahead of Me: “My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going, I do not see the road ahead of me.” We all feel lost at times wondering where God is leading us. This practical presentation is based on Thomas Merton’s Prayer of Trust and Confidence. The audience is challenged to discover ways to trust and allow God’s plan in their life.
Authentic: Knowing the Person God Created You to Be: “For we are his handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for the good works that God has prepared in advance, that we should live in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) Spiritual growth is in part a journey toward knowing who God created us to be. To do this, we need to reflect upon what we’ve been, who we are, and who God is calling us to become through the Creator’s perspective. The audience will learn about how we can live the purposeful, authentic, and ever-changing life God has graciously created for us.
Open the Eyes of My Heart: Using Liturgical Media Art in Worship: In liturgy, the faithful are called to full, active, and conscious participation. What are new ways we can help our assemblies do this? In this workshop, Mel will explore the concept of liturgical media art developed through a "communal co-creation" process. This topic which was the basis of Mel's Capstone Project/Thesis paper is an up and coming concept in Catholic worship. Participants will learn the basic ideas and insights and actually experience liturgical prayer using this medium. A great presentation for liturgy planners, R.C.I.A. coordinators, and youth leaders.
O God You Search Me: "Great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies." (Psalm 57:10) This presentationis based on a letter Mel's mom wrote to her and her siblings. Through the letter along with scripture and reflections, participants will be invited to experience and be inspired by God's infinite love for them.
I believe; help my unbelief!: God invites us into a larger faith. This simple passage & quote from Mark, Chapter 9: “Immediately the father of the child cried out, ‘I believe; help my unbelief!” is a key to the difficulties, questions, and the winding journey of belief. A journey that has room for doubt because belief is an act of exploring and a process of learning, embracing, and trusting. This session will break open the Gospel of Mark and discover the God who not only desires our belief but actually welcomes our curiosity. Asking questions can strengthen our faith. When we reach out to God, God reaches back!
In addition to her live presentations and performances, Mel has released five contemporary Christian CDs.
Mother, I Miss You (50% of the proceeds benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center)
Bienaventurados (Spanish/English Album) 2010 Unity Award Spanish Album of the Year Nominee
Open My Eyes 2008 Unity Award Liturgical Song of the Year Nominee
The Journey Multiple Top Catholic Song Choice
Hope-N-Light Mel's Debut EP
Mel is an Artist Representative for Unbound Ministries. She also has several community outreach programs. Along with her ministry, she is the proud aunt of 16 nieces/nephews and 5 great nieces/nephews. She resides in Northern Nevada with her husband of over 32 years, Steve. Her ministry is dedicated in loving memory of her mom, ministry team member & best friend, Barbara Shields.
