As of late yesterday (Thursday), the Church of God in Aylmer had not responded to a cease and desist order from the province’s Attorney General. The letter was delivered yesterday morning to Pastor Henry Hildebrandt by Aylmer Police. It requests the church and anyone acting on its behalf immediately cease holding gatherings of more than 10 people, unless those gatherings are drive-in services only and comply with all other applicable provisions of the Re-opening Ontario Act.
In a statement from ministry spokesman Nicko Vavassis, he notes the province is reviewing the situation and considering next steps. He advises,
“As this matter may be subject to litigation it would be inappropriate to comment further.”
Here is the full statement:
Governments do not direct the police, nor the judicial system, and we have complete confidence in law enforcement to uphold the law. Police services, municipal bylaw enforcement officers, and provincial offences officers have the authority to enforce compliance around the closure of facilities mentioned in the orders.
The government is aware of the situation involving Church of God of Aylmer.
On February 4, 2021 the Ministry of the Attorney General requested that the Church provide an undertaking saying they will comply with the requirements in the governing regulations. The request was sent to the Church and to their prior legal counsel. The church has not responded. Ontario is reviewing the situation and considering next steps.
As this matter may be subject to litigation it would be inappropriate to comment further.
