Kansas, upon hearing of the departure of long-time frontman Steve Walsh, could be forgiven for pursuing John Elefante again. After all, he took over in a similar situation in the early '80s -- and Kansas didn't miss a beat.

Not this time. Elefante confirms that the band called last Wednesday (July 2), to discuss a reunion, but that he turned them down. He prefers to remain, he says, focused on contemporary Christian music.

"We had a great and fruitful sit down together," Elefante told his fans via Facebook. "But as with any big decision in my life, I find it most important for myself, my family and friends to turn to prayer. On Friday (July 4), God had swiftly answered these prayers but His response was not what I was expecting, which was a definitive closing of the door."

Elefante was part of three Kansas albums between 1982-84, co-writing and singing the hits 'Play the Game Tonight,' 'Right Away' and 'Fight Fire With Fire.' Since, he has claimed a number of GMA Dove Awards, as well as four Grammys, while working as a singer-songwriter and producer -- notably for Petra. Elefante's most recent project, 2013's 'On My Way to the Sun,' found him collaborating with Kansas' Rich Williams and David Ragsdale.

"I am very much enjoying where my travels have taken me so far," Elefante added, "and truly love the freedom I have earned. And there is still so much that I have to offer the fans by way of my solo recordings, live performances, etc. I truly believe that Kansas will find a good fit and continue to be a great band. I would also like to add that Steve Walsh is one of the reasons I wanted to become a singer. His talent will be missed and I wish him well."

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