Our Thriving Team
Dr. Celeste Bryson, Pastor
Pastor Celeste moved her family from Delaware to Arizona in 2019 to follow God's call. With the amazing support of her husband and children, they planted Thriving in Tucson, AZ on June 23rd in the same year. Pastor Celeste has been in ministry since 1999 and has served in several areas of leadership in ministry including Youth Leader, Hospitality, Praise and Worship, Health and Wellness, Financial Management, Intercessory Prayer, Singles Ministry, Marital Counseling Ministry, and Christian Counseling Services. In 2013, she was ordained as a Minister and later ordained as a Pastor. She has her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology as she often utilizes her professional skills to help others in the community. She has a great compassion for others as she enjoys teaching the word of God and bringing community members together.
Mike Bryson, Elder
Elder Mike manages the operations of our Ministry Services. Since 2003, he has served in many leadership roles in ministry including Head of Security, Youth Leader, Marital Counseling Ministry, and Christian Counseling Services. He was ordained as a Deacon in 2009 and later ordained as an Elder. He enjoys inspiring and encouraging ministry leaders and volunteers to ensure efficient workflow, completion of projects, improvement of systems and processes, and carrying out ministry operations. Elder Mike works in the community as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mental Health. He believes in helping others maximize their full potential, both naturally and spiritually. He also enjoys spending time with his family.
Kenisha Fluker, Church Administrator
Kenisha brings a heart for ministry and a commitment to excellence in church administration and operations. She has a background in operations and management as well as a strong passion for supporting the mission of the Church. She plays a vital role in ensuring that day-to-day functions align with the spiritual and administrative goals of the congregation.
Since stepping into this role, she has overseen facility management, volunteer coordination, and internal communications with diligence and integrity. She is known for her sincere compassion for others, approachable leadership style, and attention to detail. She works closely with our leadership team, ministry volunteers, and church partners to foster a welcoming and organized environment for worship and community outreach.
Gwen Watson, Production Lead
Gwen serves as the Production Lead at Thriving, where she combines technical expertise, a heart for service, and a strong foundation in leadership to create meaningful worship experiences. With a background in media production and a distinguished career in the military, Gwen brings discipline, innovation, and clarity to the church’s audio-visual ministry. Gwen also hones her skills in high-pressure environments, managing logistics and communication systems as a 1st Lieutenant in the Army National Guard. Her leadership experience helps our volunteers work effectively and steward technology in a way that enhances rather than distracts from worship.
In addition to her technical background, Gwen holds a master’s degree in Social Work, which deeply informs her approach to team development, pastoral care, and community engagement. She is passionate about mentoring volunteers and building a culture of unity and excellence behind the scenes.
Marisa Bryson, Kids Ministry Lead
Marisa has been an essential part of the Kids Ministry at Thriving since its very beginning. As one of the original team members, she has grown alongside the ministry and played a key role in shaping a safe, fun, and faith-filled environment where children can learn about God’s love.
A dedicated college student, Marisa brings not only her time and energy, but also a deep compassion and natural gift for connecting with children. Her calm spirit, creativity, and nurturing personality help kids feel welcomed, valued, and excited to grow in their relationship with Jesus. Her love for ministry is rooted in a genuine desire to see children flourish spiritually, emotionally, and socially. Her consistent presence, servant’s heart, and joyful leadership have made her a beloved figure at Thriving and a blessing to our families and children.