Following Justice Bruce Thomas’ determination Friday morning, the locks on the doors of Aylmer’s Church of God were changed by late afternoon. Aylmer Police accompanied by enforcement officers from the Ministry of the Attorney General’s office completed the task just after 4 p.m.
Upon their arrival, they were met by congregants inside the Church who had been there during the proceedings earlier in the day at the Elgin County Courthouse. They were read the order and all left when told to do so.
Deputy Police Chief Nick Novacich advised police remained on the scene for approximately two hours while all locks were changed. Aylmer Police and Elgin OPP closed John Street while this took place.
Speaking at the church following Justice Thomas’ decision, Pastor Henry Hildebrandt continued to be defiant noting, “nothing will deter us.”
He added, “Nothing will stop the people of God.”
Many family members remained outside later in the evening clustered in groups throughout the parking lot while children played in grassy areas.
Hildebrandt had suggested perhaps a picnic would be in order.
The church building will remain locked until such time that the gathering limits for an indoor religious service under the Reopening Ontario Act allows at least 30 per cent capacity. Access is permitted for necessary inspection and repairs.
In addition to changing the locks, the Church of God has been fined $35,000, Pastor Hildebrandt fined $10,000 and assistant Pastor Peter Wall $3,000. The Church has also been ordered to pay $69,000 in legal costs. They will have 90 days to pay all fines.
The church was found in contempt of an order under the Re-opening Ontario Act. Earlier this month, two indoor services were held with no one in attendance wearing masks. Aylmer Police counted 202 people entering the church for the May 9 service.
You can read more at https://www.stthomastoday.ca/2021/05/14/doors-of-defiant-aylmer-church-to-be-padlocked/
