YouVersion’s “Beyond a Billion” Celebration Features ORU Gospel Choir

Tulsa, Oklahoma, December 15, 2025—Oral Roberts University’s (ORU) Gospel Choir was recently featured at Beyond a Billion, an event celebrating the Bible through worship and storytelling. The Choir joined a lineup of worshippers, speakers, and leaders gathered to celebrate more than a billion downloads of the YouVersion Bible app. 

“We are honored to have our Gospel Choir represent ORU at such a powerful global event,” said Dr. William M. Wilson, ORU President. “Their talent and ministry through music embody the heart of ORU—to develop Spirit-empowered artists who impact the world. We are excited to see them shine on such a significant platform.”

The ORU Gospel Choir, which consists of ORU’s Gospel Ensemble and Chamber Ensemble, was invited to sing with worship artists such as CeCe Winans, Matt Redman, Lauren Daigle, Brooke Ligertwood, Joe Barnes, Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, KB and many others.

“This opportunity was life-changing and established God’s work in the creative experience,” said Dr. David Dehner, Director of Choral Studies.  “It shows how God can elevate us to a place of service when we are well prepared and active in our purpose for ministry in the arts. ORU is significant in its music academics because our preparation is guided and delivered by the power of the Holy Spirit, aligned with excellence in the creative arts. Christian Artists have purpose in demonstrating God‘s glory in all aspects of life and His glory does shine in the performance of ORU musicians.”

 

 

 

 

 

Trecilya “Mackeyla” Merei, the Choir’s Student Director, spoke about her experience at Beyond a Billion, calling it an “honor” to perform at this global event.  

“I’m still trying to wrap my heart around it,” said Mackeyla. “Serving under Dr. Dehner has been a gift—one that continues to grow me as a leader in the best ways. This weekend, God reminded me that leadership isn’t defined by how loud you can speak, but by humility, unity as a team, and carrying His heart together. He’s been shaping me to lead with intention—to build a legacy, not just create a moment. ORU has given me the environment, community, and opportunities for that refinement to take root. I’m grateful God allowed our choir to be part of something so historic.”

A brief recap of the event is available at https://www.life.church/billion/.  To learn more about ORU’s College of Arts & Cultural Studies, please visit www.oru.edu.

Nationally Ranked, Globally Recognized

ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 17 years of consecutive enrollment growth. Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ORU offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations, and pre-professional programs at the bachelor’s level, ranging from business and engineering to nursing, ministry, and more. In 2024, the Carnegie Foundation recognized ORU with a “Leadership for Public Purpose” award, a distinction earned by only 25 universities nationwide. Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from all 50 states and 174 nations in the last 6 years to be whole leaders for the whole world.