The Reverend Michelle Townsend de López – Pastor
Pastor Michelle currently serves as the Lead Pastor. She is committed to the execution of the purpose and vision of the congregation grounded in the Holy Spirit and social justice for our community. She is responsible for various areas of ministry such as administration, communication, worship & prayer, sacramental ministry, pastoral care, elders/caregivers, community outreach, ministry partners and evangelism for all ministries. Additionally, provides supervision and guidance in the daily activities of the church.
Prior to joining the ministry in a professional capacity, Pastor Michelle worked in the legal field as a paralegal and as a Human Resources Director for a financial software and media company. She has a great love for people, especially children, youth and elders. She was a faithful and dedicated member of Cross for over 30 years where she was shaped and nurtured by this wonderfully diverse congregation and served in many capacities of lay leadership.
Rev. Michelle Y. Townsend de López received her Masters of Divinity from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago with an emphasis in Hispanic/Latino ministries. She also earned her Youth and Family Certification via the Bishop’s Initiative in coordination with Wartburg Seminary. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish/International Relations.
Rev. Michelle Y. Townsend de López is married to Mr. Leonel López and they are the proud parents of five young boys: René, Samuelle, Leo, Erendirani and Quetzal and fur parents of “Chula” the Chow Chow. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, entertaining, reading, traveling, and listening to world music.
People who have significantly influenced her faith and vocation have been her maternal grandmother, Lillie Belle Flowers, professor and mentor, Dr. Linda Thomas and dear friend the Rev. Kenneth Wheeler.
Her favorite scriptures are Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” and Isaiah 43:19 “Behold, I am doing a new thing”, Esther 4:14 “…And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this.”