Christian hardcore band For Today has announced in a facebook post that 2016 will be their final year. Along with the announcement, the band shared dates for an extensive farewell tour scheduled for the fall. The news follows their most recent release Wake by less than a year.

"After over 11 years as a band, 6 full length albums and 1 EP, we have decided to make 2016 the last year of For Today," the heartfelt facebook post said. "When we started this band in 2005, we never imagined that our music would make it out of Sioux City, Iowa, let alone take us all around the world multiple times. Our lives have been hugely impacted by the time we've spent making music and touring. We met our wives, had kids and moved to different states because of For Today. It's been an incredible experience, but we feel like now is the time to close this chapter of our lives and move on. There's no behind the scenes drama happening or disagreements between band members. We're all still best friends and will continue to be long after the band is over."

The farewell tour dates include South America and Europe shows as well as many stops in the United States. For Today's news came the day after lead singer Mattie Montgomery announced on his own facebook page that he is launching a new merchandise business. "Whether it's a band, a sports team, a business, or a church, we have the equipment and expertise necessary to help design, manufacture, and distribute any merchandise you might need, as well as people that can help build the reach and recognition of your brand through online marketing and digital advertisement," Mattie shared. "This is a whole new adventure for me, and I am SO excited to share it with you!"

Mattie also further elaborated on the band's decision in another facebook post. "Many people are asking me 'Why?' And it's very simple: God said so. We've said throughout our career that this was not about chasing a spotlight, or even writing or performing music, but about honoring the Father's perfect plan for our lives. A couple months ago, He began to stir in my heart and make it clear that, For Today had accomplished what we were sent to accomplish. And, for us to continue on now would be to tell God that OUR plan is better than His."

Above all, the band-- who has spent 11 years shattering stereotypes about Christian music and bringing the gospel to some of the biggest secular hardcore tours in the world-- stressed their gratitude to their fans. "We want to thank everybody who has made this possible, especially the fans who have kept us going for so many years... Come hang out with us one last time and let's make these last shows some that we'll never forget!"

You can visit For Today on facebook for a full list of farewell tour dates. You can also follow Mattie Montgomery for more information on his future ventures.