December 2025 (Wilmington, NC) - The world’s most beloved Christian rock band Petra returns with HOPE, their first album of all-new material in more than two decades. The landmark release is licensed and distributed through Girder Music, marking a powerful new chapter for one of the most influential bands in Christian music history.

HOPE features 10 brand-new songs and marks Petra’s long-awaited return with fresh music that carries the band’s unmistakable sound, conviction, and message into a new era.

Pre-orders for CD and vinyl will go live exclusively at GirderMusic.com on January 1, 2026. The album will be released digitally worldwide on January 5, 2026, followed by the CD release on January 12, 2026. Vinyl editions are scheduled to ship in mid-March 2026, with three different color variants planned for collectors.

“This album is the most honest representation of Petra since our first release,” said Bob Hartman. “It grew out of our 50th anniversary tour, reflects our shared faith, and is meant to inspire God’s people and bring HOPE to the hopeless.”

>John Schlitt said this, “To our Petra friends - it's been 20 years. we don’t take your support lightly, and I truly believe we’ve delivered something worthy of your trust. This album is exciting, powerful music with a clear Christian message at its heart. It reflects who we are, what we believe, and what we’ve always hoped to share with you. We’re incredibly excited for you to finally hear it and experience it for yourselves.”

“This album completely blew me away,” said Greg of Girder Music. “There isn’t a weak song on it. Bob delivers unmistakable, soaring guitar work, John’s vocals are powerful and inspired, and the entire record exceeds every expectation I had. HOPE truly lives up to its name. We’re honored to be the home for this release and to bring it directly to fans through GirderMusic.com.”

Petra’s influence spans generations, with millions of records sold, multiple Grammy and Dove Awards, and a catalog that helped define Christian rock. HOPE builds on that legacy while offering something unmistakably current — a bold reminder of faith, perseverance, and musical excellence.

Vinyl editions of HOPE will be available across three exclusive color variants. All physical formats will receive Girder Music’s signature treatment with high-quality presentation, created with collectors and longtime fans in mind.

HOPE will be available on all major digital platforms and physically through GirderMusic.com, the official destination for Petra CD and vinyl pre-orders beginning January 1.

• CD & Vinyl Pre-Orders: January 1, 2026 (GirderMusic.com)
• Digital Release: January 5, 2026
• CD Release: January 16, 2026
• Vinyl Release: Late March 2026 (3 color variants)

About Petra

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For more info on Petra, visit the JFH Artists Database.

 

 

 

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