Waterloo-area church held in-person service despite court order, police say
Posted Jan 25, 2021 01:09:05 PM.
Police in Waterloo Region say a church allegedly held an in-person service yesterday despite a court order compelling it to comply with provincial pandemic rules.
Investigators say they are working with public health officials to ensure “appropriate action” is taken regarding the Trinity Bible Chapel in Woolwich, Ont.
They say the church already faces “numerous” charges under the Reopening Ontario Act.
Ontario legislator Randy Hillier, an independent MPP and vocal critic of the province’s lockdown measures, tweeted a photo yesterday that appeared to be from the service.
He also posted a photo that appeared to be of the outside of the church.
The government of Ontario declared a state of emergency and imposed a stay-at-home order on Jan. 12, which includes a ban on indoor gatherings and activities, including religious services.
Some religious services, such as weddings and funerals, are permitted provided they include no more than 10 people and physical distancing can be maintained.
The rules apply to the entire province and will remain in effect until at least Feb. 11.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 25, 2021.
The Canadian Press
