James Coates is a young pastor in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, who was imprisoned this week for continuing to hold services at his church. This really hits home for me because I was born in Western Canada.
The story has received international exposure via social media and news outlets, but in order to fully understand Pastor Coates’ perspective, I believe that it’s important to go to direct sources. James’ wife, Erin, has an Instagram page (@erincoates80), and the church (GraceLife Church of Edmonton) released a detailed statement on its website.
If one simply reads the news articles being released, it would be easy to assume that GraceLife Church is purposefully going against the Alberta lockdown guidelines to gain attention and make a public statement. But Pastor Coates has stated in recent sermons that he and his church members are simply trying to lead tranquil and quiet lives in service of God.
GraceLife states on its website that it is taking measures to mitigate the spread of the virus. The church closed its doors last spring and did not reopen until June, when the first public health emergency had officially ended. Since that time, GraceLife says that it has not seen any transmission of the virus as the result of any of its gatherings.
In a recent sermon, Pastor Coates took a moment to thank law enforcement officers, but before he did, he asked his parishioners not to cheer, in order to comply with guidelines set by Alberta Health Services. So instead of cheering, congregants stood and clapped. This church is not trying to defy the government, but simply serve God.
As I read through the posts that Erin Coates has made on social media since her husband’s arrest, I am incredibly encouraged by the complete trust that this couple has in God and His providence. They are committed to serving their congregation and serving their God, whatever the cost.
We realize that this is a complex situation and that the government officials are working hard to mitigate the spread of the virus, but imprisonment is simply not the answer. To see a man who has a clear love for the people in his church and his city be thrown in jail should be troubling to our society.
Let’s join in prayer for James and Erin and their children, as well as for the people of GraceLife Church. We also want to pray for those who authorized this imprisonment, that they would be able to see Pastor Coates’ heart for the city of Edmonton.
A positive result of this situation is that Christians and non-Christians across the world now have a front-row seat to witness Pastor Coates’ love for and devotion to God.
Mom of 4
So sad to realize the world we live in today, where rioters who stole and caused so much damaged got away with it without consequence and a peaceful pastor who is simply trying to gather gets thrown in jail.. š but as God says in His Word āBeloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, āVengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.ā
āHe will never let the righteous be ashamedā
In the end, the truth will be revealed and every person will be judged for their own actions!
Praise God for His promises to all those who trust in Him in this wicked time!
Regina Shea
Amen sister!
Anonymous
Completely agree @Mom of 4
MarriedUK
I agree that it no real purpose will be served by putting someone in prison but is it really sensible for the authorities to allow someone to flout the coronavirus rules? Would you feel the same way if it was a leader from another faith? What if they were self professed Jedi knights? Or just frat boys who missed each other? We all feel desperate in our hearts to be back in our communities but given the online options available, is there any real excuse for in person mass gatherings at the moment? Even distanced/ ventilated gatherings can transmit the virus and the sooner we suppress it, the sooner we can get back to normal. And I donāt really believe in lockdown. Itās just the reality- the government are going to keep us locked down until the transmission levels fall and that wonāt happen if individuals say, āIām not following the rulesā.
Ellie
Hi MarriedUK,
I definitely agree that no one should be able to openly disregard the health guidelines. Since they have been allowed to meet since June and havenāt had any transmission in their church, they must be doing something right. My thought is, perhaps the government could leave them be and focus itās time on people who are holding large gatherings where covid cases are being transmitted. Based on his wifeās descriptions, Pastor Coates sounds like the type of person who would do anything for anybody, and I just canāt understand why any government would throw such a contributing member of society in jail.
Anonymous
How can that pastor prove that there hasn’t been any transmission in his church when a lot of cases go undetected and are asymptomatic, yet still act as a vector for spread? How can he prove his “mitigation” efforts worked 100%? He can’t. No matter how “careful” any of us thought we were anywhere, cases still happened, numbers still went up, and more people died. Schools that reduced attendance and moved desks apart STILL had cases that were traced to teachers and pupils. Same with supermarkets that reduced number of shoppers allowed. Staff still got sick. This is an airborne virus and there is air everywhere, even in the most “careful” of churches and other indoor spaces. There have been cases reported among people who met outside too, in close proximity (outdoor dining).
I have to side with the government on this issue. They are watching out for all their citizens. This pastor thinks his interests are more important than those of others. As a leader, he should be particularly careful to follow government orders. There can’t be exceptions for gatherings that aren’t necessary (church services can be broadcast). You start with churches and next will come people who claim their group is worshiping something too. It happened in England at pubs! The government has to draw a firm line. There have to be consequences for not following orders. This is a TEMPORARY situation and will be even more temporary if the virus spread can be stopped. This is NOT government banning your religions freedom. This is NOT a permanent situation. None of us have the right in a crisis to do something that further endangers others!
Ellie
I understand your point of view, but Christians simply have a different perspective. I would encourage you to read the statement on the church’s website. It goes into great detail and might help you understand where Pastor Coates and his church are coming from.
Jeanette
I guess I’m confused by your answer and implying that Pastor Coates somehow has the authoratative Christian view? I have no doubt that he is sincere and means well and is a kind and generous man. I have read his statement and its definitely earnest and sincere. It also has a lot of misguided information in it – I will give grace and say that its unintenional. However, for Christians who believe in the Bible, Romans 13 is the Word is God and is very clear: Romans 13-“1Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” Not wearing a mask is an act of rebellion.
I wear a mask and follow distancing guidelines as an act of obedience to God, not as a result of fear. This is not a weaker brother issue, nor is it an issue of obeying God rather than man. The Holy Spirit never instructs someone to do something that is clearly against God’s word. Can you not wear a mask and show God’s love? If you are going out to the grocery store or going to church, the answer is no.
Ellie
Hi Jeanette. This is a complex issue, and perhaps I didn’t do a great job of fully explaining the situation. The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms states that James Coates is, “currently in jail for exercising his Charter freedoms of conscience, religion, association and peaceful assembly.” The organization also states that, “The congregants of Grace Life hold strongly to their religious beliefs regarding the necessity of gathering in-person to worship and to minister to each other through fellowship and corporate prayer and worship, exercising their Charter freedoms peacefully.” https://www.jccf.ca/alberta-premier-asked-to-release-jailed-pastor-end-religious-persecution/
Erin Coates said on Instagram that the public health order that her husband refused to agree to would require their church to limit attendance to 15% capacity (which would prevent them from welcoming the majority of their congregation, as well as visitors), stop singing in worship, and force everyone to leave right after service and not speak to anyone from outside their household.
I hope this clarifies things a bit. š I would encourage anyone who is interested in learning more to check out the statement on the church’s website and visit Erin’s Instagram.
Ellie
Emily
As a Christian myself, I have to respectfully disagree. While your point of view is definitely acknowledged and very much respected, I must say that I am more than happy to pray and worship from home during this time. My church has been amazing, giving us resources and weekly (and sometimes even more depending on the season) masses. They are welcoming people into weekly mass in the church, but ask that everyone who is able to access the mass from home, do so. As someone who is studying nursing (and as someone who wants to use that outlet to serve God!) I feel an immense responsibility to do my part and follow the guidelines provided. While it is a very painful time for all, and it really hurts my heart to stay home and distance, I would much rather do that than spread the virus and have to carry that weight on my shoulders. I choose to heal and serve, and the BEST way we can serve the Lord is to protect our brothers and sisters in Christ. For now, that means not gathering in groups of more than a few people. With that being said, though, I am sure that this Pastor’s heart was in the right place, and he had no ill intent. I pray that the Lord sees him through and blesses and protects him, his family, and his church.
Ellie
Hi Emily. Thank you for sharing your opinion respectfully. š
Bruce
You have way to much trust in government. Transmission at schools is incredibly low. The reason more schools across the nation and I am speaking of the US, is teachers unions are using COVID-19 as a bargaining chip and the teachers unions are big political donors to the Democrat party. Private schools have done just fine. In Vegas after casinos open back up a church was told it could not gather. This isnāt science it is politics. Again I am speaking about the United States but this Canadian situation appears similar.
Anonymous
These things could start happening in America too. Thatās why so many people were upset that Trump lost, they felt he would protect their freedoms more
Regina Shea
Thank you Ellie for posting this. I will put this pastor, his family and his church family on my prayer wall to remember to pray for them daily. Instead of imprisoning pastors for holding church services authorities should concentrate on real criminal like thieves, murderers, etc.
Anonymous
I don’t see a problem with this. If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.
Larry
It’s very easy to see from these comments, who understands what it means to have a relationship with Jesus the Lord and who doesn’t! God wishes none to be lost! Choose this day who you will serve!
Anonymous
I shall pray for this pastor. My church didn’t have service at church this morning. My pastor, his wife and their daughter have Covid. They always have live stream for the ones who feel uncomfortable coming to church at this time. This morning they had to take the pastors wife to the hospital. Could you pray for this family.My church are following guidelines, wear mask, stay six ft. apart, wash hands and every other pew is taped off.
Ellie
I will certainly pray for your pastor’s wife and his family. So sorry to hear that!
Anonymous
My pastor now has pneumonia and is at home. His wife came home Monday. She also has pneumonia and took her back to hospital this morning. They are both in their late seventies. Please pray for them.
Ellie
That’s very sad! I will be praying. Thanks for letting me know.
Anonymous
Pastor’s wife is still in the hospital,she needs a miracle healing.š
Ellie
I’m so sorry to hear that! I will continue to pray.
Anonymous
My pastor’s wife is in a Rehab Care Center,where she will receive physical therapy and occupational therapy. She is being treated for covid pneumonia,is still on oxygen and is very weak. Thank you Ellie for your prayers
Gabrielle!
Prayingšš»
Anonymous
The government seems to be wanting to treat all group gatherings the same, however right or wrong that might be, regardless of which groups are actually spreading the virus. It probably just makes it easier for them to keep the rules the same for everybody
Anonymous
Well now he wonāt be able to preach at all in prison. He did what he thought was right, life is always about choices. Thereās a saying that you canāt fight city hall, even if theyāre wrong. Restrictions are loosening up, maybe more patience on his part would have been best since covid is a temporary thing
Jeanette
Patience is definitely a virtue. I know that so many Pastors here in my home state of Minnesota have found that they have been able to reach even more people for Christ during this time with streaming services and with temporary capacity limits, they simply hold more services (sometimes many more!) to make sure that they reach all the members and visitors who would like to come – just in a safe way. In between small groups meet either in person where allowed, or on zoom. So many have grown their witness while also being a culture of life that works hard to protect their neighbor. I love when Pastors are a bold witness in a way that grows the church, leads others by their creative example, and show patience knowing that this is such a short amount of time in God’s overall plan.
Stacey
I understand the pastor wants to hold services. I wonder why they couldnāt stream services instead of holding in person service? I understand that their transmission rate is low, however if someone did become infected from attending church services, and they later died of complications, I believe that is 1 life too many. Itās possible the Pastor would even feel responsible. I understand these are tough times…people can still worship from the safety of their homes. The problem is not that people are worshiping, the problem is people are gathering together when they are being asked not to, to help save lives. The US just hit 500,000 deaths. I am afraid that number will be much higher when this is all over. Especially because people want to gather when they shouldnāt.
Ellie
Hi Stacey. It sounds like he is seeing the mental and emotional effects that isolation is having on his congregation and others and feels that he canāt adequately serve his church or visitors through online streaming.
Stacey
Completely understand the mental and emotional anguish people are suffering. Meet outside, wear masks, stand 6 feet apart. I donāt know if that is even allowed…if they are allowing small outdoor groups, he can hold services in several small groups outside. I was just watching Little House on the Prairie where they had to quarantine for some disease…and everyone obliged. Everything was closed, even churches. If things were only that simple these days.
Eileen
I am sorry Ellie. I cannot agree with you. I respectfully have a different opinion. I live in Edmonton. I have not left my property for 8 months.
Ellie
No worries, Eileen. Thanks for sharing your opinion kindly. š
Nadine
I donāt want to reiterate what so many people were saying with their kind responses, whether they agreed or disagreed. Many had valid points. However, having the pastor put in jail, in this case, was not the answer.
I am grateful that our small church not only livestreams but is able to hold a 10% capacity. This is legal in our state. Many parishioners switch back and forth so they are able to visit with others. This is so important for me mental well being.
Eileen
This is about Canada, Alberta, Edmonton. Every jurisdiction and official is doing their very very best to handle the pandemic, the economy, peopleā viewpoints, their own fears, families, and what is the best for all peoples in their jurisdiction. Premier Kenny has talked a lot about this and the responsibility and decisions that weigh on him as he tries to guide our province through. I pray for him and all officials in these difficult situations and times. Please do not compare us as well to a minority of people in your country, the United States who caused riots and law breaking. Sweeping generalisations about your country then applied to my country do not match the reality of my life in the community under discussion. People are so much only thinking of themselves and not of the greater good for all regardless of their beliefs and practices. We must all work together with value, respect, courtesy, for all mankind. We are all in Godās image. He cares for all of us and loves us all unconditionally. Not just the congregation of one church, meeting place, mosque, temple, etc. We cannot put our individual needs ahead of everyone elseās. This is said respectfully, sincerely, and with care. I believe all three are important in these times of extreme stress on all of us.
Leina
I’m a pastor and I feel the pain not being able to gather with our congregation as we use to. But I would still not defy our governments orders and regulations during this difficult time. I live in northern Europe and the situation has been that bad, thanks to our people following the guidelines. We have 5,5 million people and only bit over 700 have died. The death rate in USA is ten times higher. Since this virus is airborne, for example singing in the church is a risk factor. In here we have tried to keep the church doors open as much as we can, and everything is streamed. Communion has been celebrated by having multiple mini services on sundays so that people can come in small groups and we gathered outside also. I have held a evening prayer during Christmas wearing three sets of pants, so I could manage with the cold weather š
Ellie
Sounds like you are taking your role as a pastor seriously, Leina. Thatās encouraging to see.
Anonymous
I think that this type of behaviour needs to be closely examined. The Christian Church in Canada is not being persecuted. Every person is expected to follow public health guidelines including offering services and gatherings virtually. This means that the church can continue to support and care for vulnerable members, or isolated members.
A few Churches are claiming Charter Rights are being infringed – it will be interesting to see if that legal argument holds up in court. Thankfully there are very few Christian Churches (as compared to the total number) in Canada choosing such conduct and although upset and disappointed about not being able to meet in person during shut downs they choose to follow the Laws but still have the ability to disagree. I think this might be a difference between generally accepted values of Canada vs United States. In the US individual rights and liberties are prioritized, but this is different from the world view of many other nations (and perhaps part of the reason every other country in the G7 has health care).
Ellie
Thank you for sharing your opinion respectfully. š
Julie C.
This is a great point, Anonymous. We cannot approach the question from an American perspective, I think. I am also Canadian, from Quebec, and it is important to stress the fact that the way we perceive individual rights here is different from that of most Americans. It is not my role to decide whether or not this man should be in jail (and the rules vary from one province to another, I don’t know what they are in Alberta), but if he went against the rules in Alberta, it is simply not right, no matter the beliefs. Ellie, you have to keep in mind that we all collectively pay for healthcare here in Canada, which I am truly happy about, so it is also a collective and individual responsability to respect the laws to prevent the spread of covid-19. In Quebec, for instance, we have had an 8pm curfew since January 8th and while absolutely nobody is happy about it (it is a bummer!!!), it is something we accept because we don’t want the medical care workers to have to choose between who they will save and who they will let die if the hospitals have too many patients. It is obviously a measure that many Americans would consider to infringe their freedom way too much and would most likely reject. So while Canada and the United States are similar in some regards, there are many differences, which should be taken into account on such questions.
Maeve
This is a great post Ellie. I have many friends and family living in Canada, and this is absolutely distressing and disgusting for all of us. Canada isn’t a truly hostile country towards Christians and other religions at this time, but over time I believe it will become worse as it did in other countries. Covid-19 is certainly a terrible virus, and definitely should be taken seriously, and it seems this man actually believed this. I also believe the Bible tells us to obey the authorities placed above us. But, worshipping the Lord with fellow Christians is so important and it is commanded in Hebrews that we do not neglect this. The government is to be obeyed, Covid should be taken seriously, but God’s word is to be revered above all. After a year, a pastor cannot be truly connecting with his congregation through a screen. I think it is incredibly sad that this happened, I also understand how it makes sense to some people. I am so grateful that our governor here in Michigan has not attacked our constitutional religious freedom. Sadly Canada’s government has different laws on religious freedom. I’m sorry if this is super confusing, I am not the best writer š Have a good week everyone!
Anonymous
Sorry but it is the pastors fault. He could have gatherings as long as they were smaller. So it wasnt like he could not hold service. Authorities warned for months. They gave him fines and warned if he continued he would get imprisoned. The pastor knew what he was doing and still openly defied the law. We dont allow other gatherings to flout safety. Western Canada has had much less cases because we do have restrictions. I feel bad for his family but you should not get special rights to put people in harm just because you are a church.
Amy in Maryland
Wow Ellie Iām sorry so many people are disagreeing with you. Iām not even religious but I KNOW the importance of religious freedom as outlined in our Constitution. I am mostly house-bound due to health concerns related to the virus but I have no problem with churches holding services while taking precautions. Just compare the paths taken by Florida versus California during this crisis. Florida has way more elderly and has stayed mostly open and yet is doing better than California, which has had a draconian shutdown. What happened to people taking personal responsibility? Just like me, Iām sure most of the elderly and people with underlying conditions in Florida are taking extra precautions. Sounds like the Canadian pastor is doing so as well. Once you go down the path of violating the Bill of Rights ā freedom of speech especially ā you are ruining our countryās destiny as āthe shining light upon the hill.ā
Ellie
I love your comment, Amy. Thank you for sharing your perspective. I hope things improve soon so you can be out and about again.
Have a wonderful day! I’m grateful to have you as a reader. š
Ellie
Anonymous
I am interested to see and know more about what arguments will be made through court and through public conversation. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms differs greatly from the US Constitution. Christians in Canada are one of the protected classes that the Charter refers. It will be interesting to find out what evidence they are relying on to say that as Christians they faced discrimination because of covid (as all groups have been subjected to stay at home orders). One thing that I think is admirable about the comments is that it seems the readers of this blog are able to maintain respect for one anothers ideas and positions…nice job Ellie for creating that community!
Kay
Thank you so much for bringing this to our attention Ellie! That was some statement they have!
Lisa
Yes, it is unfortunate that a pastor is in jail. However, where I live in rural MN, my church has blocked off every other pew and the balcony is closed. We have to follow the rules of our state. I understand that you feel differently, but we didn’t resume in-person worship at our church until July and started with very limited singing. We are now singing more. Most in attendance wear masks, Holy Communion is distributed with gloves, etc. There are occupancy limits for everything here now including restaurants and bars, sporting events at schools, etc. Our public middle school/high school was just able to resume in-person learning every day two weeks ago, otherwise the students were divided into two groups attending every other day. Clergy in the state worked with our governor. There are many online opportunities with worship. We are all learning in this pandemic.
Federica
Within the bounds of lawfulness (and, as far as I understood, the pastor has not done anything illegal), there comes a point when everyone of us must make decisions to balance our own health (physical and mental) and that of others. These involve trade offs and must be carefully weighted, and reassessed as the situation evolves. Case in point: my soon goes to daycare. My husband is an essential frontline worker and works on site, not remotely, 90% of the time. I am fortunate to have a 100% remote job and have not gone to the office in a year. A lot of people have commented on the fact that I take the risk to send my son to daycare, and that my husband keeps his job when I could easily support the family as sole breadwinner – I totally and fully appreciate that there is a risk, but it is a risk that we, as a family, decided we are willing to accept, while taking all the necessary precautions (masks, social distancing, etc) and, very importantly, minimizing risks in other areas as much as we can – for example, we have not left our state in over a year, we have not flown, we have not gone to a restaurant (except takeout), we go grocery shopping once every 3 weeks. All legal things, we just have chosen these are areas where we can “go without”, as opposed to jobs and daycare (essential for us to be able to keep our jobs, and for our son’s development and mental health). By the same logic, as soon as I can, I’ll get vaccinated. I know full well that there are risks and side effects, but by the time it’s my turn, I will not have seen my aging parents and in-laws, who live overseas, for two years. Two years are like a thousand years with aging loved ones. I’m getting that Covid shot and running to the airport faster than you can say “fly”! All this long “rant” to say – I don’t blame people who, where legal and taking all the due precautions, choose to attend church. That pastor is doing his job, taking care of the spiritual health of his congregation. All the best to you and your family, Ellie!
Maeve
Love this!
Elizabeth
I do find this interesting and have also followed along. I think, personally, I would be compelled to respectfully practice civil disobedience if the church was singled out and persecuted. In this case, the church is being asked to abide by the same rules and regulations as everyone else. If the government didnāt step in with some recourse, then the rest of society would also assume the rules donāt apply to them either. I do feel prison is pretty harsh though. I donāt know what warnings or fines were given prior to imprisonment. I appreciate you shedding light on this Ellie.
Canadianna
Itās disgraceful that the pastor felt he was exempt from the law!
Especially if he was previously warned!
Anon
Hi Ellie. I’m from Australia. You are from Canada. Both strong democratic societies with stable Westminster governments and laws. Churches have to abide by the law of the land. I hope this is the last pandemic we have to live through. Everyone has had to make huge sacrifices. The Canadian government listens to the health authorities. The Christian pastor is not above the law. It could be argued that by defying the law he is acting in an un-Christian like way by showing disregard for the safety of others. His prosecution is not about suppressing religion. It is about the need to protect everyone in society from the danger of COVID-19. Because if the govt doesn’t impose restrictions you end up with 500,000 dead souls (including many Christians), which is the awful reality of the USA. Christians and any other faith can still worship their Gods, but at the moment everyone needs to stay safe, and in 2021 we have the technology to keep in touch with each other from afar. I mean you no disrespect with this comment, but ask that you consider the big picture.
Anonymous
Well said!
Regina Shea
As I was praying for Pastor Coates today, I remember reading accounts of early Christians who were not allowed to meet together for by doing so they faced arrest and in most cases faced death. Thankfully in Canada Christians don’t face the death penalty for having church sevices like in some countries. I think this pastor did the right thing by obeying God rather than man (Acts 5:29) by not forsaking assembling together as believers ( Hebrews 10:25). This pastor didn’t decide to just disobey to get national and international attention. I will continue to pray for Pastor Coates and his wife Erin. I admire both of them for their strong faith. I hope I can have such a faith if put through a severe trial.
Sandra
Why not just stick to the rules; no big gatherings?! Even though he means well he is breaking the rules. Everybody should stick to the rules, no exception
Justine Kessner
Dear Ellie!!!
In Canada, we have crazy strict laws, for the handling of The Covid 19. No one can hold meeting, OK non, The Pastor should of known that, if in Canada if U have more then 10 person in 1 place, U can go to jail, regardless of what the meeting is!!!! Canada, if U are at store, U don’t wear your mask, U will get a 1200 fine!!!! We don’t fool around!!!!!!!!!
Anonymous
Yes and he had tons of warning. He also was allowed to have church worship just not in as a big a numbers. My frineds have a church where people rotate so everyone gets to go in person a couple times a month and the rest of the time its zoom, So people can still get in person worship once in awhile.
Iris
I clicked to read the statement, hoping for a full disclose of the sanitary precautions they were taking (masks, sanitizer, distancing…) but no, it’s just about how Covid isn’t a serious illness and “use your freedoms, because the government will rip them from you if you don’t”.
It’s completely delusiunal! Who believes that after the pandemic the government will still prohibit large gatherings, or impose closing to restaurants or churches? These measures are all temporary, and the sooner people comply to the rules, the sooner the numbers will go down again and they won’t be necessary.
There were ways to gather safely for worship instead of disreagarding the rules: if only 15% of people are allowed inside the church at any given moment, just hold 6 or 7 smaller services on Sunday, instead of a big one. Yes, that requires more work from the Pastor, but this extra work is to serve God and the congregation, so it’s a sacrifice worth made. And God isn’t counting the minutes, so an 1h service won’t be any less worthy in the eyes of God than a 5h service.
By disregarding the rules, this Pastor not only put his congregation at risk health wise, he also willingly put himself in a position where he is unable to serve that very same congregation. So everybody looses.
Anonymous in Alberta
I live in the Canadian province of Alberta. We are encouraged to go to Walmart and other big box stores but are not allowed to go to church. Children are banned from sports but watching professional sports is encouraged. There are only a few churches brave enough to speak out against this blatant anti- Christianity. All decisions are based on money and the only time Jesus was truly angry was against the money changers. All Christians need to stand up to the evil measures government is trying to enforce.
Jeanette
Could you clarify the evil measures? I don’t think I follow. I am a Christian who lives in the US and not Canada, and around the world big box stores/other retail/large sporting venues have been open and here also just due to the nature of the virus – that the way its transferred is through sustained close contact – generally 15 minutes or more. So retail where you have lots of people, but they are generally moving around and not sharing airspace for a sustained time is pretty safe – same with large sporting venues where in a stadium you can really spread out. Places like churches, movie theaters, bars etc. where you are generally seated and sharing the same air space for long amounts of time are at a way higher risk of virus transmission. Are the movie theaters and bars open in Canada to full capacity? Those would be a comparable environment. If so, that is totally not fair. If they also have restrictions then its simply the nature of the virus and how it spreads. As you’ve said, there are many churches out there that are following guidelines still have a culture of life and care for their neighbor and they have worked hard to simply have more services or meet outdoors. I know that having more services is more work for the Pastor, but I am so thankful for these culture of life churches that work for the safety of all during this temporary pause. For example – in my home state of MN, we border Canada and we did have capacity restrictions on churches – the Pastors all worked hard to add more services – bless them! We just received the announcement today that all capacity restrictions are lifted – praise God that these culture of life Pastors were patient and now get some rest.
Anonymous
Sorry Ellie. But that pastor should have not have had services he should have done it online. All those people who were their could have gotten covid. He deserves to be in jail for the rest of his life.
Ellie
To say that someone deserves to be in jail for the rest of their life is a very serious statement to make. Life sentences are reserved for people who commit such crimes as murder, treason, human trafficking, rape, and terrorism.
Kari
As a Christian living in Canada, and a follower of your blog for years, I’m upset with this post. That pastor is in prison for repeatedly ignoring public health rules. They were not respecting social distancing, not masking and not respecting capacity limits. Repeatedly. Churches in Canada are NOT closed. Each province does have different rules around capacity limits per service based on the severity of outbreaks, which makes total sense. That pastor is not caring for his flock. I expected more from you Ellie.
Deanne
I agree Kari. If he truly cared about his flock, he would hold more services and keep the attendee numbers at any given service within public health guidelines. He could recruit others in his congregation to have services if having 4 services on Sunday is too exhausting. They could record his sermon and play that to an afternoon in-person if no one else can “sermonize”, This is the time to be creative, think putside the box, and not be so truculent about going on like there is no health crisis.
Deborah
Thank you for sharing this utterly shocking story. More people need to know how out-of-control government is. The handling of COVID-19 is nothing short of government overreach. How is it that people have so easily allowed their lives to be shackled in this way? Please friends, do your own research!! You will see that these restrictions do not slow a virus. We will never have this virus under control, but we will build immunity against it, just like other viruses.
Anonymous
In Canada the government takes care of the people when they are sick, for free.