Ontario’s Emergency Measures and Civil Protection Act was put to the test Sunday morning in Aylmer and it wasn’t challenged by a vociferous group of protesters. Instead, it involved carloads of approximately 250 worshippers quietly listening in the church parking lot to the message from Pastor Henry Hildebrandt broadcast on their vehicle radios.
With several Aylmer Police officers on the scene, the drive-in service proceeded without incident, punctuated by the occasional outburst of honking horns to emphasize a particular message.
For the past two weeks the church has held similar services under the watchful eye of Aylmer Police. Hildebrandt said following the service he is confidant future services will not face any threat.
He stressed those attending the drive-in service remained in their vehicle with the windows up, they did not interact with other vehicles and no one was allowed in the church, even to use a washroom.
Based on a legal interpretation obtained last week by Aylmer Police, the service was in violation of the emergency act, as noted by Insp. Nick Novacich
Aylmer Police had indicated, should the drive-in service proceed, those attending could be subject to charges for failing to comply with an order during a declared emergency. However, none were issued on the scene Sunday.
