The Bonds of War - Sermon by Rev. Roberta Howey

In The Bonds of War, preached for Remembrance Day, Rev. Roberta reflects on the complex legacy of faith in times of conflict—grief for the fallen, anger at human violence, and hope for peace. Tracing the United Church’s roots through the Methodist and wartime traditions, she explores how churches wrestled with patriotism, pacifism, and conscience during both World Wars. From chaplains on the front lines to ministers who protested against war, Rev. Roberta shows how faith communities have struggled to balance loyalty to nation with loyalty to God. In an age of drones and digital warfare, she calls the Church to remain a voice of conscience—a brake on the machinery of violence—reminding us that God’s image resides not only in ourselves, but also in those we call the enemy.