Pastor - Michele Townsend Grove
1.
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!
Our Pastor, Michele Grove, will be on vacation and study leave from Monday, March 17th to Sunday, March 30th.
She will check email periodically and is available if there is an emergency.
She will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, April 6, 2025
March 14, 2025
Pastor's Perspective
UU Stockton Members and Friends,
There is a continued theme in my Sunday Services and newsletter articles focused on the current state of nation and world. This theme also embodies the anxiety, helplessness, anger and confusion we feel as we navigate each day. Today, I want us to reflect on Audrey Lorde’s quote,
“There are many kinds of power, used and unused, acknowledged or otherwise.”
Are we using our personal and communal power effectively? Are we doing enough for a world and a people that need us? We are talking about this each week. We are looking at these questions from different perspectives. I am sure you also have questions to add to the list.
And even if it feels as if we are not doing enough, I am proud of all that YOU are doing and all that WE are doing. And I am grateful for your attention, courage, and willingness to engage the conversation. This is what I see. Every small act is added to the ocean of commitment and care.
How will we use the power we possess?
How will we continue to expand the good we can do?
How will we continue to care for the most vulnerable in our communities?
Let’s keep talking and creating solutions. And, when you are in need, please let us know. You are loved and valued in this place.
Blessed Be,
Michele 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!
Our Pastor, Michele Grove, will be on vacation and study leave from Monday, March 17th to Sunday, March 30th.
She will check email periodically and is available if there is an emergency.
She will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, April 6, 2025
March 14, 2025
Pastor's Perspective
UU Stockton Members and Friends,
There is a continued theme in my Sunday Services and newsletter articles focused on the current state of nation and world. This theme also embodies the anxiety, helplessness, anger and confusion we feel as we navigate each day. Today, I want us to reflect on Audrey Lorde’s quote,
“There are many kinds of power, used and unused, acknowledged or otherwise.”
Are we using our personal and communal power effectively? Are we doing enough for a world and a people that need us? We are talking about this each week. We are looking at these questions from different perspectives. I am sure you also have questions to add to the list.
And even if it feels as if we are not doing enough, I am proud of all that YOU are doing and all that WE are doing. And I am grateful for your attention, courage, and willingness to engage the conversation. This is what I see. Every small act is added to the ocean of commitment and care.
- Our congregation is engaged in working with partner organizations each month. We send them between $200 and $500 to aid them in their work. This month, we are supporting VIATS (see the description below). VIAT has stepped up their work to help Guatemalans in danger of deportation. As I talk to people who work with VIATS and those who benefit, I am more committed to support their ongoing work.
- Our congregation is stepping up to support the Freeport Area Church Cooperative. Jeanie tells us more in an article below about the need. I am encouraged about our response. Joan Harmet sent me this photo from last Sunday. (see the photo at the end of this article) Can we do it again?? Thanks to all who are donating to the empty shelves that feed the hungry.
- We are discussing ways to be present for those who fear deportation. Some are joining Rapid Response Teams which bear witness and make sure that people who are arrested for deportation are being treated lawfully with respect. Some are learning how to be advocates for those in danger. And we will continue to learn as a community. Watch for more information on how we can be advocates. When we are advocates individually, we make the community stronger. Many in this congregation are calling Senate, House of Representatives and State and Local officials daily! Keep calling and keep talking to our representatives. When democracy is in danger, our voice needs to be louder than ever.
- Many within out congregation are working locally to care for our planet and all its water, air, plants and animals. This will go a long way in healing an earth that is hurting. For those doing this work, how can more of us be engaged?
- Several in our congregation are working locally to ensure that democracy continues to be valued and honored. For those engaged in this work, how can each of us be more engaged?
- We are caring for each other. We are paying attention to each other. And we are opening our arms to new people who join our community. This is a powerful, sacred work.
How will we use the power we possess?
How will we continue to expand the good we can do?
How will we continue to care for the most vulnerable in our communities?
Let’s keep talking and creating solutions. And, when you are in need, please let us know. You are loved and valued in this place.
Blessed Be,
Michele Grove