Restoration of Raley Chapel Will Reopen the Doors to the Campus Community

Raley Chapel, a towering symbol of OBU’s spiritual and cultural commitment, has been a cornerstone of OBU campus life since its dedication in 1961. Through the years, the chapel has not only served as a place of worship but also as a hub for the arts, education, and community gatherings for more than six decades. Although the iconic structure withstood the April 2023 tornado, it sustained significant damage, leading to the most lengthy closure of its doors in nearly 62 years. The restoration of Raley Chapel stands as a powerful symbol of OBU’s resilient spirit and vibrant future. 

Raley Chapel holds a special place in the heart of every OBU student, marking both the beginning and end of their journey on Bison Hill. It is the destination for “The Walk” during Welcome Week and the traditional setting for their culminating steps across the stage at commencement. Throughout their time at OBU, students regularly return to Raley Chapel, experiencing spiritual growth through weekly chapel services featuring biblical teachings, inspirational messages and times of worship. 

A President’s Dream 

Former OBU President Dr. John Wesley Raley nurtured a dream from the time he began his presidency in 1934: A permanent location on campus where students could gather for chapel services. Temporary locations on campus were used for chapel services for many years but none could accommodate the growing student population.  

In a speech to the 1944 Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, Raley said, “The building must be more than steel and stone. It must, in fact, be a part of each one of us – the spire of our faith, a faith which somehow in this physical expression we would ever keep faith before our youth.” 

On February 20, 1959, a groundbreaking was held during the Christian Education Convention for a new chapel which would include an auditorium with a seating capacity of 2,000 plus a 300-voice choir; recital, rehearsal and lecture halls; and teaching studios. 

A Vision Fulfilled 

In 1960, the OBU Messenger proudly announced, “New Chapel to be Named for President Raley.” It was a fitting tribute to a leader whose tenure saw the university grow from four buildings to more than 20. Raley, deeply moved by the honor, remarked, “The chapel will form the center of the cultural and religious concern of a great denomination, expressed through its institution of higher learning. It will provide a forum for leaders of human thought.” His vision for the chapel was clear: it would be a place where faith and intellect could meet, fostering a community grounded in both. 

A Legacy of Worship, Learning and Culture 

The first chapel service in Raley Chapel was held on November 21, 1961, just before Thanksgiving. Pastor Joe L. Ingram delivered a poignant message on thankfulness, setting the tone for decades of worship that would follow. 

Over the years, Raley Chapel became a venue for renowned artists and musicians. In 1964, opera singer Marilyn Horne graced its stage, followed by pianist-entertainer Peter Nero. These performances marked the chapel as a significant cultural venue in the region. 

Throughout the 1970s, Raley Chapel hosted performances by iconic artists like composer Jimmy Webb and singer John Denver. The chapel’s role expanded further when a new fine arts center, dedicated in 1971-72, was added to its lower level, named in honor of the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation for its generous support. 

Enduring Through Time 

In 1999, Raley Chapel underwent significant renovations, including a $1 million remodel of the Potter Auditorium. This upgrade, completed in 2000, introduced modern features like a fully electronic organ console, ensuring the chapel would continue to serve future generations. 

The chapel’s resilience was tested on April 19, 2023, when an EF2 tornado struck OBU’s campus, causing widespread damage. Yet, Raley Chapel stood strong, offering shelter to students, staff, faculty and alumni. This event marked the worst natural disaster in the university’s history, but, remarkably, there were no injuries – a testament to the chapel’s enduring strength and the providence it represents. 

A Towering Symbol 

Raley Chapel, with its towering 200-foot spire and its 61,000 square feet of space, continues to be a beacon on Bison Hill. Its eleven stained glass windows, designed by Ruth Dunn and selected in collaboration with President and Mrs. Raley, depict themes that blend religious symbolism with artistic beauty. These windows, along with the chapel’s other features, have made Raley Chapel not just a building, but a living part of the university’s history. 

A Reflection on the Future 

“Raley Chapel’s history is not just a chronicle of events, but a narrative of faith, perseverance, and the unyielding commitment of a university to its spiritual and cultural mission,” OBU President Dr. Heath A. Thomas said. “It continues to be a cherished landmark, echoing the values that have defined OBU for generations. The revitalization  
of this chapel can be symbolic of  
OBU’s vibrant future.”