Through his time in high school and college he worked numerous odd jobs, including paper carrier, janitor, dishwasher, and drink vendor at the Metrodome.

[2] After another two years, he entered formation with the Claretians and began to attend Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where he received a Master of Divinity.

[3] During the trial of Derek Chauvin, Kenney led a prayer service each morning calling for healing and peace.

[3][2] Upon receiving the call from the apostolic nuncio, Christophe Pierre, Kenney was initially hesitant as at 64 years old he was already considering retirement opportunities.

[5] He was consecrated a bishop on October 28, 2024, by Bernard Hebda, with Peter F. Christensen and James R. Golka as principal co-consecrators.