Louie Weaver parts ways with Petra

Petra surprised fans late last week with an announcement on its official website (www.petraband.com) that the band and longtime drummer Louie Weaver had "come to an impasse" and as a result, Weaver is no longer part of the band. The announcement made on the site goes on to say, "We have all sought the Lord for a long time in prayer and council and feel that this is the Lord's will for this situation. We hold no ill feelings towards Louie and we wish him and his family all the best in whatever God's called him to next." The statement was written by band manager Wayne Seboa.

Fansite petrarocksmyworld.com reports that Weaver, who was with Petra for 22 years, has not yet commented publicly regarding his departure from the band, but his personal manager has reportedly told fans that he will issue a statement soon. The site also reports that rumors of Weaver's departure had first begun circulating two months ago.

According to another fansite, guidetopetra.com, earlier that same week, guitarist Quinton Gibson confirmed to fans that he also is no longer a member of Petra. Gibson has reportedly been touring with Warner Christian's new band, Strange Celebrity, since January.

The band's official website also mentions Petra's next album, to be released once again on Inpop Records. Peter Furler is producing the album, which is said to be a "classic Petra rock record." It's due in August.