My journey started when I walked away from organized religion over 15 years ago. As someone born and raised in a church that followed paths of organized religion, I still longed for that community – a spiritual family. I found that and so much more at Hummingbird Church, and I want to share some of my experience/journey.

Location: Hummingbird Church ceremonies are primarily held in Cherry Valley, CA; however, as a church is the people, not the location, Hummingbird often hosts ceremonies in different cities throughout the US to increase the range of people who can access the healing sacrament. The Cherry Valley location is nothing short of magical. The air and energy are so palpitating that you can feel it before exiting your vehicle.

Ceremony: It starts with breathwork. AND I do mean WORK. This stuff ignites your whole being (body, mind, and soul). You’ll laugh, cry, scream and feel the world around you…by breathing!! There are other medicines offered that help cleanse and purge negative or pinned up energy; however, there’s only one sacrament, and that’s served by a traditional, indigenous doctor, Taita Pedro Davila.

Sitting with the sacrament: Quite possibly one of the most uncomfortable feelings, until it’s not. And, I think that’s the point. I paid attention to how my body, feelings, and mood changed, and there were moments when I felt the sacrament moving through my system. Over the course of three days, I consumed multiple doses of the sacrament and felt safe at all times, especially when my ego death happened. I was utterly vulnerable and expected people to laugh or mock me, but it wasn’t that. When I came back to life, I was met with smiling faces, a couple of pats on the back, and a “good job, buddy.” This encouragement, support, and mini-celebration continued throughout the weekend—pure encouragement and support to get you where you need to be in life.

Facilitators/Volunteers/Staff: They were plentiful and on top of everything. From helping people stumble to the bathroom to fetching water, food, blankets, anything you needed was available almost immediately.

Hummingbird Church is a collective of souls seeking to heal and connect with the planet and others. To go beyond ourselves and find deeper meaning in the joy, trauma, success, and failure we experience in life. I’m forever thankful for Hummingbird Church, its staff, healers, and community. I love you all.