RCMP called to Kelowna church to break up in-person service in contravention of COVID-19 rules

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The RCMP paid a visit to a church in Kelowna on Sunday for an in-person service in contravention of COVID-19 guidelines.

Officers were called to the unnamed church in the 1600-block of Harvey Avenue just before 11 a.m.

“When officers arrived they observed several people in attendance who were not wearing masks or social distancing,” Kelowna RCMP said in a statement. “Officers spoke at length with a leader to ensure there was a clear understanding of the updated regulations, and no fines were issued.”

“The Kelowna RCMP is working with Interior Health to determine the appropriate next steps,” police said.

While the vast majority of places of worship in B.C. have respected the Nov. 19 order suspending all in-person religious gatherings, a handful of churches have resisted. Riverside Calvary Chapel in Langley opened its doors again on Sunday despite receiving a fine the previous week. 

In Chilliwack, Pastor Jim Butler led an in-person service at Free Grace Baptist Church, in violation of the provincial health order, also for the second week in a row.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has said the closure of churches is necessary to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, as there has been transmission in places of worship.

One local example of that was an outbreak at a Kelowna church in September and October that ended in seven cases.