In this powerful sermon, theologian and author Kat Armas—drawing from her new book Liturgies for Resisting Empire—invites listeners to confront both the external and internal forces of empire that shape our imaginations, relationships, and faith. Reflecting on the story of the hummingbird and the mission of Westwood UMC, Armas reminds us that true liberation begins within: in the slow, sacred work of unlearning fear, hierarchy, and scarcity so we can embody God's abundance and kinship. Through the stories of Exodus, the wilderness, and the early church, she paints a vision of "kingdom" as kinship—a community of mutuality, justice, and love that resists domination and embraces difference. Her message calls us to be like the hummingbird: small but steadfast, carrying drops of courage and compassion to help heal the world, one act of resistance and love at a time.

Sunday, November 9, 2025
Special Guest preacher Kat Armas, with Rev. Molly Vetter