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.

In Indulgences and Grace, preached on Reformation Sunday, Rev. Stephen Milton revisits Martin Luther’s protest against the sale of indulgences—a system that turned forgiveness into a transaction to fund St. Peter’s Basilica. Drawing on Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Rev. Milton contrasts prideful religion with humble repentance, reminding us that God’s grace cannot be bought or earned—it is freely given. From Luther’s challenge to church corruption to the United Church’s own repentance for past harms, Milton traces how faith deepens when it admits its failings and turns toward grace. True reformation, he concludes, comes not from defending our righteousness but from embracing God’s love and extending it to others with humility and compassion.

In Command-Meant, Rev. Stephen Milton explores how God’s laws—far from being restrictive—are meant to give life meaning and depth. Drawing parallels between modern debates over speed cameras and the ancient psalmist’s joy in following God’s commandments, he contrasts external enforcement with the inner freedom that comes from self-discipline. The Hebrew word mitzvah, often translated as “commandment,” carries a richer sense: a divine guideline that benefits both the individual and the community. Rev. Milton shows how Jesus distilled 613 laws into two—love God and love your neighbour—transforming obedience into relationship. In a world suspicious of limits, the sermon reminds us that slowing down, showing care, and choosing love freely lead not to less life, but to more.