Pioneering rockers Petra talk about their decision to fold.

PIONEERING Christian rock band Petra have spoken about their decision to retire after 33 years. Said Petra founder, guitarist and primary songwriter Bob Hartman, "It has been a privilege and honour to represent our Saviour and participate in his Great Commission. We have nothing but thanks to God for all he has done." "God used Petra in my life in so many ways, as he did in so many other lives," commented John Schlitt, Petra's lead singer since 1986. "I am truly thankful for having been part of Petra. We've had a good long run and have seen so much. We've seen God's hand at work in our music on every continent and in every language."

The band has impacted generations of musicians and fans alike over the years with over seven million CDs sold, four Grammy Awards, 10 Dove Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Petra, initially formed in 1972 by Hartman on vocals and guitars, paved the way for the rock genre perhaps more than any other in the Christian music industry. Though a rotating cast of musicians comprised Petra's lineup over the years, the band is closing 2005 strong with over 20 albums to its credit, the latest being the 2003 Grammy-nominated 'Jekyll And Hyde'. At present, Schlitt and Hartman have made no immediate plans for the future.

Final Petra tours in the United States and Europe are in the planning stage.