A Calgary mayoral candidate and a pastor who were both arrested for allegedly violating COVID-19 laws over the weekend were released from custody Monday pending future court appearances.

Calgary police allege Kevin J. Johnston, who is running in this fall’s municipal election and has been a
vocal supporter of anti-lockdown protests, was in violation of a court order when he attended illegal
gatherings Saturday.

About 20 people, meanwhile, gathered outside the Calgary court in support of Pastor Tim Stephens, who
was arrested Sunday for organizing a church service at Fairview Baptist Church. Police allege the service
did not comply with public health orders.

Holding signs that said “Free Pastor Tim” the supporters prayed and sang hymns prior to the court appearance. Police said they received repeated calls from concerned citizens about services at Fairview Baptist Church in recent weeks, and that Stephens was proactively served a copy of the May 6 order last weekend.