Oklahoma Baptist Messenger Staff

OKLAHOMA CITY (BP) – On March 7, Oklahoma voters went to the polls for a special election to consider State Question 820, which would have legalized the use of recreational marijuana in Oklahoma.

SHAWNEE, Okla. (BP) -- After more than a decade of service, Oklahoma Baptist University President David W. Whitlock retired Jan. 8 to serve the remainder of the academic year as chancellor. Whitlock will assist OBU trustees in the presidential transition and retire from university employment effective May 31, 2019. Will Smallwood, senior vice president for advancement and university relations, will serve as acting president of the 2,000-student university in Shawnee which is affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma.

DAVIS, Okla. (BP) -- The newest facilities at the Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center, including a state-of-the-art events center and new lodge, were dedicated Feb. 2 by leaders of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, which owns and operates the nationally known ministry, founded in 1917. BGCO Executive Director-Treasurer Anthony L. Jordan noted at the dedication ceremony, "In all, we have completed more than $55 million in revitalization of existing facilities, infrastructure and the construction of new buildings," including the 7,000-seat R.A. Young Tabernacle that opened in 2007 and the new Mathena Family Event Center, Thompson Family Lodge and Jordan Welcome Center.