Alberta Pastor Was Arrested for Violating Health Regulations

For the last two months, Canadian Pastor Tim Stephens has been making the news for allegedly ignoring health restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic. Events this past week began when the pastor posted a tweet that stated, “I just got a tip that the police may be on their way to arrest me. Why? I continue to lead our church to worship Jesus as Lord over every earthly power.” This tweet gained over 13,000 likes within a matter of days. 

A reporter for the website Rebel News then arrived at the pastor’s home to record the arrest. He posted the footage to Twitter, which shows several police officers arriving at the pastor’s home. 

The pastor’s wife, Raquel Stephens, criticizes the police officers, claiming that their province, Alberta, is the only one arresting religious leaders. This footage has gained over 2,000 likes to date. 

Many of those who have reacted to the news of the pastor’s arrest have criticized the Canadian government for acting in a tyrannical or despotic manner.

Raquel Stephens has since provided updates regarding the situation. She has stated that her husband has refused bail conditions and will remain in police custody until June 28th, when he will attend court. She also claimed that her husband was arrested for holding church congregations outdoors, where there is little chance of coronavirus transmission. 

Raquel Stephens has also organized rallies in support of her husband in an effort to free him.