On Air Now Cool Country Morning 7:00am - 10:00am

Now Playing Hosted by Carl Carpentier Cool Country Morning

Listen Live

American Life Tabernacle church pastor ignores COVID-19 state directives

Tuesday, 31 March 2020 17:30

A pastor in Louisiana who has been charged with six misdemeanours for holding church services in violation of a ban put in place to control the spread of the coronavirus said Tuesday that he would continue to ignore the ban because God told him to.

Pastor Tony Spell was issued a summons Tuesday for holding services at the Life Tabernacle church in the city of Central in violation of an order from Gov. John Bel Edwards prohibiting gatherings of more than 10 people, said East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney Hillar Moore.

Each violation carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $500 fine, Moore said.

"The whole situation just puts everyone at risk," Moore said. "We ask everyone to abide by the governor's order."

Spell, reached by telephone Tuesday, confirmed he was read his rights and fingerprinted - but the summons wasn't deterring him. Another service was scheduled Tuesday night that he said was expected to draw hundreds.

"We're still here and still assembling and having church," Spell said. Asked why he was defying the governor's orders, he said, "Because the Lord told us to."

More from CHON-FM Northern News

CYFN's Moccasin Mobile Outreach Program receives national recognition for harm reduction efforts

The award acknowledges the program's dedication to providing essential services, including warm clothing, meals, and cultural support, to those in need.
Winter Games Wednesday with Nancy Thompson - Wednesday 25th February (Audio)

Audio

Nancy Thompson brings a ringside look at the intense training happening in Whitehorse as wrestlers gear up for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.
Winter Games Wednesday with Nancy Thompson - Wednesday 18th February (Audio)

Audio

Nancy Thompson here, catching up with some of the talented hockey players gearing up for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.
Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and Yukon Government partner on Dawson land planning initiative

The plan will cover Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Settlement Land parcels C-13B and C-87FS, and adjoining Government of Yukon-owned land.
Winter Games Wednesday with Nancy Thompson - Wednesday 11th February (Audio)

Audio

Nancy Thompson is catching up with some passionate athletes gearing up for the Dene Games
Yukon University strike averted as union reaches tentative agreement

The union announced the news, stating that workers deserve a fair and equitable contract.
Yukon Government seeks input on new École Whitehorse Elementary School location

The survey will be open until April 26, and in-person public information sessions will be held March 23-27 at various locations in Whitehorse.
Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games schedule unveiled

The Host Society has also completed contingency planning, relocating services from Yukon University
Jeremy Harper elected as Chief of Selkirk First Nation

As only one candidate submitted and upheld the required nomination forms for Chief.
Yukon government pauses implementation of Health Authority, considering repealing Health Authority Act

Yukon Premier Currie Dixon cites "outstanding concerns" regarding the impacts on health-care workers pensions and the structure of Shäw Kwä’a.
Yukon University withdraws from AWG

The decision was made following discussions about how any labour disruption would interrupt access to the entire campus.
$300,000 fund boosts student attendance initiatives in Yukon schools

Since 2012, the initiative has raised over $3 million, with $1.9 million invested in projects supporting student attendance.
Whitehorse to host 2026 Broomball World Championships

Up to 35 teams from around the world will compete in four divisions: mixed, men's, women's, and men's masters.
Harper to run for SFN chief

The former MLA for Mayo-Tatchun said that he made the decision following rest, reflection, and careful consideration.
Helicopters head to Alaska for exercise

The Griffons will operate at altitudes no lower than 500 feet above the highest obstacle on their route
First Nations warn of increased scrutiny at US border, citing ICE actions

Recent incidents have seen some First Nations members facing heightened checks, prompting the AFN to condemn these actions and reaffirm its commitment to protecting First Nations
Art brings hope to Whitehorse Shelter amidst challenging times

By including Yukon First Nations art in the shelter, we are helping to ensure it feels inclusive and connected to the community
Yukon Schools to benefit from national School food program

The funding will support a hot lunch pilot program, school kitchen improvements, and the development of territory-wide Healthy Food Guidelines.
Yukon Liberal Party shuffles leadership

Pemberton's departure follows the party's recent territorial election loss, where they failed to form government.
US healthcare workers courted to fill Canada gaps, Yukon next

There are already American health care workers who have moved to Canada with the help of Healthcare Infusion information and resources.