Pastor - Michele Townsend Grove
Michele Townsend Grove, our half-time minister, is a Unitarian Universalist religious educator who has expanded her portfolio to include worship and congregational leadership. Michele moved to Galena in 2021 with her family and found the Unitarian Universalist Church of Stockton through the reference of a dear friend. Michele has worked in United Methodist and Unitarian Universalist churches for more than 30 years including congregations in Delaware, Washington, Maryland, West Virginia, New Jersey and Illinois.
Michele is married to Andy Townsend, a retired dentist who is currently working to restore several properties in Illinois and West Virginia. Michele and Andy have a daughter who is a sophomore at Galena High School.
When Michele is not working with the UU Stockton congregation she is consulting with other Unitarian Universalist congregations, teaching courses in transitional leadership, gardening and playing games with her family. Michele also admits to being a big fan of Marvel movies and Star Trek.
If you would like to reach out to Michele, please email [email protected]. Michele looks forward to getting to know you!
May 1, 2026
How many times have you watched a movie or television show only to think that the theme of the story would be a wonderful thing to discuss with your Unitarian Universalist community? Often, themes of belonging, social justice, and religious belief are central to the plot. And often, movies and television raise questions that help us sort out our morality and ethics.
This happens to Andy and me often. Whether it is the latest Avatar movie, which explores several complex environmental themes, or a Marvel movie like Black Panther, which examines issues of power, prejudice, and community, we enjoy the conversations that arise from being immersed in the story.
This is also found in many television series. When Helena was home, we had a family tradition of watching an episode of The Rookie together. Issues of evil, poverty, and police power were among those we explored as we watched these episodes. And now that Helena is off to college, Andy and I are enjoying watching Star Trek in the evenings. After all, once your grown children leave the nest, every night is date night! And of course, we miss her deeply.
Watching Star Trek has other advantages. We enjoy bringing some of these episodes to you. Twice in 2026, we have gathered to watch a Star Trek Episode and discuss the theme. These themes are closely related to our Unitarian Universalist Values.
In March, we watched Star Trek Voyager. The episode titled Distant Origin explored themes of science and evolution. What if the dinosaurs of Earth evolved to an advanced species?
In April, we watched Star Trek: The Next Generation. The episode entitled Outcast explored issues of gender and society. What would happen if someone declared themselves male or female on a planet that believed they had evolved past gender?
The conversation in both sessions was fun, and I appreciate everyone who participated. In May, we will continue the exploration with our third watch party. The episode is to be determined (and I am open to suggestions). It will take place on Saturday, May 16th 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at our home in Galena: 1221 Franklin Street, Galena, IL. We invite you to join us to enjoy Star Trek on the big screen television with food and friends. As always, you can come for the show and discussion, or simply for the fellowship. Either way, we look forward to gathering in fellowship and exploration.
Blessed Be,
Michele
Michele is married to Andy Townsend, a retired dentist who is currently working to restore several properties in Illinois and West Virginia. Michele and Andy have a daughter who is a sophomore at Galena High School.
When Michele is not working with the UU Stockton congregation she is consulting with other Unitarian Universalist congregations, teaching courses in transitional leadership, gardening and playing games with her family. Michele also admits to being a big fan of Marvel movies and Star Trek.
If you would like to reach out to Michele, please email [email protected]. Michele looks forward to getting to know you!
May 1, 2026
How many times have you watched a movie or television show only to think that the theme of the story would be a wonderful thing to discuss with your Unitarian Universalist community? Often, themes of belonging, social justice, and religious belief are central to the plot. And often, movies and television raise questions that help us sort out our morality and ethics.
This happens to Andy and me often. Whether it is the latest Avatar movie, which explores several complex environmental themes, or a Marvel movie like Black Panther, which examines issues of power, prejudice, and community, we enjoy the conversations that arise from being immersed in the story.
This is also found in many television series. When Helena was home, we had a family tradition of watching an episode of The Rookie together. Issues of evil, poverty, and police power were among those we explored as we watched these episodes. And now that Helena is off to college, Andy and I are enjoying watching Star Trek in the evenings. After all, once your grown children leave the nest, every night is date night! And of course, we miss her deeply.
Watching Star Trek has other advantages. We enjoy bringing some of these episodes to you. Twice in 2026, we have gathered to watch a Star Trek Episode and discuss the theme. These themes are closely related to our Unitarian Universalist Values.
In March, we watched Star Trek Voyager. The episode titled Distant Origin explored themes of science and evolution. What if the dinosaurs of Earth evolved to an advanced species?
In April, we watched Star Trek: The Next Generation. The episode entitled Outcast explored issues of gender and society. What would happen if someone declared themselves male or female on a planet that believed they had evolved past gender?
The conversation in both sessions was fun, and I appreciate everyone who participated. In May, we will continue the exploration with our third watch party. The episode is to be determined (and I am open to suggestions). It will take place on Saturday, May 16th 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at our home in Galena: 1221 Franklin Street, Galena, IL. We invite you to join us to enjoy Star Trek on the big screen television with food and friends. As always, you can come for the show and discussion, or simply for the fellowship. Either way, we look forward to gathering in fellowship and exploration.
Blessed Be,
Michele