(Christianity Daily) Pastor Tim Stephens of the Fairview Baptist Church in Calgary, Alberta in Canada spent his first weekend with his family and church since he was arrested on June 14 over COVID restrictions in the province.
The Canadian pastor was taken by authorities two weeks ago after he defied the guidelines set by the Alberta Health Services, which prohibited him from conducting church services that did not comply with the province’s COVID restrictions. He was arrested in his home, in front of his wife and children who were visibly distraught over being separated from their parent.
Now, Pastor Stephens feels nothing but gratitude for being released from prison following his arrest over COVID restrictions in Alberta. According to the Christian Post, the Canadian pastor expressed his gratitude saying, “I’m thankful that the restrictions are done and rescinded, including the court orders that go along with that.”
Pastor Stephens also highlighted his gratitude to God, who he said “strengthened” him and his family throughout the whole ordeal. The Canadian pastor said, “Most of all, I’m thankful for God…that He’s built His church, that He’s sustained our church at Fairview Baptist Church.”
Pastor Stephens added that through his experience of being jailed over COVID restrictions, “People have come to know the saving love of the Lord Jesus Christ. People have been strengthened in this country and around the world, and so, for these many reasons, I’m thankful.”
