Posted: 6/24/05
| Petra, a Christian rock group, says it will retire in December after 33 years of performing. Band members, left to right, are Greg Bailey, Bob Hartman, John Schlitt and Paul Simmons. (Photo courtesy of Inpop Records) |
Petra calls it quits
WASHINGTON (RNS)–Members of the Christian rock group Petra announced recently they will retire in December after 33 years of performances.
John Schlitt, longtime lead singer, expressed gratitude for the opportunities that arose from being in the group.
“We've had a good, long run. … We've seen God's hand at work in our music on every continent and in every language,” he said.
More than a quarter-century ago, some Christian bookstores banned the group's music. Much later, the band was inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame.
“The doubts about popular music mixing with Christian lyrics have mostly vanished due to their … track record of proven ministry and changed lives. Petra was a true pioneer for our industry,” said Frank Breedon, former president of the Gospel Music Association, during the band's 2000 Gospel Hall of Fame induction.
Petra's style has evolved through the years, featuring a rotating group of musicians as the band has become an influential force in the contemporary Christian music world.
Petra has produced more than 20 albums and has received four Grammy Awards and 10 Dove Awards.
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