Police in Morden are investigating reports a local church broke public health orders Easter Sunday. Reports indicate the church in question is the Christian Church of Morden.

Currently, public health orders dictate places of worship may open for regular religious services if the number of people in attendance does not exceed 25% of the usual capacity of the premises or 100 persons, whichever is lower; and measures are implemented to ensure people attending a service are reasonably able to maintain a separation of at least two metres from others, other than those who reside at the same private residence.

According to Morden Police Chief Brad Neduzak, the church posted a notice online indicating it would be fully opening to its congregation and the public on Easter Sunday. Unfortunately, Neduzak says police didn't learn of these intentions until the service was over. As a result, police are working alongside Manitoba Health officials to investigate the matter.

"Because it's after-the-fact now, we'll have to speak with some witnesses, and obviously to people within the church, and just find out what they were thinking, and in fact, the numbers (inside) breached the order," explained Neduzak.

Anyone willing to come forward and speak to investigators are invited to get in touch.

Meantime, Neduzak says police will be monitoring activity at the church this coming Sunday, adding officers hope to speak with representatives to find out their intentions moving forward.

"Perhaps it was a one-time thing, we're aiming to find that out," he said. "Of course, we want to work with the church, but these orders are in place for everybody's safety, and if we deem there was any orders breached, charges could result."

While he understands people are growing impatient with the strict restrictions that have been in effect for over a year now, Neduzak hopes they can hang on a little while longer for everybody's safety.