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Worship Arts Leadership

Michelle Russell – Worship Arts Minister

"God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” John 4:24

God began teaching me about His creativity when I was three years old as I started my first dance class in Cleveland, Ohio. Over many years of learning tap, jazz, acrobats and ballet I discovered that dance was a way to bring joy to others and to help them. I continued to learn and teach dance as a teen and as a student at Michigan State University. When I met Jesus at the age of 20, the first thing He taught me was how to pour out my heart to him in worship. Even though I was a music major in college at that time, I experienced a whole new aspect of music as I played my flute to Him and for Him. God healed my soul. I became a musical missionary for several years and then became a Registered Music Therapist.

I have been married to Robert, who is lead pastor of Celebration Church, for 35 years and we have three children, David, Jonathan and Abbie. All of the Russell family, including Robert, have danced at Celebration Church at different times over the years. When Celebration Church Dance Ministry/ Worship Arts Ministry began in 2003, I was excited to get my feet tapping again for Jesus. I have taught dance for over 20 years and continue to learn joyful ways to express my gratitude to the Lord for all that He has done for me.

I also have the honor of being the Worship Arts Minister. It is a constant joy and challenge to see the Holy Spirit transform our staff, students and their families.

The most important thing about me is that Jesus is the love of my life. I feel close to Him when I play my flute in worship and when I dance and long to teach others the joy of worshiping Him in Spirit and in truth. Music, dance, art and drama are very important in my life for communicating with God, displaying His creativity, sharing Jesus with others, expressing joy & pain, fighting spiritual battles, serving others, connecting with other believers and staying physically strong. My newest joy is spending time with my grandchildren, Andrew Thomas, Foster Jude, Amanda Grace, Micah Arlo and one more beautiful baby on the way. I'd be glad to show you their pictures any time 😍


Contact: mrussellccwam@gmail.com

Karen Grisenti - Worship Arts Coordinator

Since 2005 our family has been a part of Worship Arts at Celebration. All of our children, as well as my husband and myself, have enjoyed dance classes, fellowship, and discipleship through WAM. The Lord has used WAM to bless our family, and I am excited to be a part of what He is doing through this special ministry.

My family moved to Kingsport when I was 15, and the Lord immediately plugged me into a group of friends and a church where I came to know Jesus as my Savior. After college I met my husband while serving with Youth with Mission for 2 years. We have been part of Celebration Church since 2002 and help with the Family Ministry.

For the past 16 years I have had the privilege of home schooling our children. We have been a part of several co-ops, where I have taught a variety of classes. My current favorite is Plutarch because it is so unexpectedly enjoyable. I have one son and seven daughters, ranging in age from 22 to 6. We have a small farm with dairy goats and chickens. It’s seldom quiet and never dull at our house!

As a mother, above all else I desire for my children to know the Lord personally and to love Him passionately. Through WAM I see them worshipping, hearing from the Lord, being encouraged and shown truth by faithful lovers of Jesus. I am honored to serve in this place where the Lord is growing up worshippers of Him.

Taylor Royston - Administrative Assistant

I am so excited to be apart of the Worship Arts team at Celebration! I began dance at the age of 3 and have been dancing ever since. Types of dance I have studied include ballet, tap, jazz, hiphop, contemporary, & tumbling. I have done studio dance my whole life, but when I began college, I was presented with the opportunity to be a part of the ETSU dance team throughout my four years as a student. Now that I have graduated from ETSU, I am ready to start the next chapter in my life. I am so thankful that the Lord has led me to Worship Arts and is allowing me to continue to use my love for dance as an expression of love for Him. Throughout all my life, be it good times or bad, dance has always been there for me. Dance has allowed me to express thoughts, feelings, and emotions in ways words would not allow. For me, dance is a passion and I am happy to be able to share that passion with everyone and use my talent to worship the Lord. I am eager to see how He allows us to grow in dance and in worship.

Contact: tkitzmillerccwam@gmail.com

Hannah Taylor- Communications Coordinator

As someone who has been a part of this ministry since I was 8, I have loved being a part of the Leadership Team as Media/Marketing/Communications Coordinator. I am also on staff at Celebration as the Digital Media Manager.

In my free time, I love to spend time with my husband, singing, song write, playing with my nieces, and traveling.

It has always been my desire to learn how to better use the arts to worship God to the fullest, whether with dance, music, singing or art. I’m honored that I get to share my passions with others through the Worship Arts Ministry!

Contact: hvoudrieccwam@gmail.com

Jeanne Kashner

Hi! My name is Jeanne. And I am looking forward to getting to know YOU! 

I am a believer, follower and lover of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am a wife to Jim, the best man on the planet. I am a mother of 3 + 2 inlaw, grandmother of 8 + 2 inlaw, and great grandmother of 3 (1 in heaven). 

I have a garden, chickens, bees, and a cat. I love to quilt whenever I have time. I also love to hike and spend time out in God’s beautiful nature. I’m a little bit of a health nut, using essential oils, making my own deodorant, toothpaste, cleansers, etc., and trying to eat MOSTLY organic. But I can’t deny that I cheat more often than I should. (Sweets are so hard to pass up 😂)

I’ve lately been praying that God would allow me to do more for His kingdom.  The call to fill this position came as a complete surprise. Not what I would have expected. But now that I think about how He’s grown my desire for community development and paired with my background in administration, my obsession with organization, AND my passion for His kingdom ??!! I am super happy to have this opportunity.

My position is Serve and Pray coordinator. I look forward to serving you in whatever way I can and I will be praying for each of you regularly. If you have special prayer requests, please don’t hesitate to bring that to my attention, either directly or by using the Prayer Request Box on the Worship Arts cart.  I will be honored to pray for you or with you and you can remain anonymous or not. It’s up to you. God is good and He loves when we talk with Him.

“What does the Lord require of you, but to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”  Micah 6:8

Worship Arts Lead Teachers

Austin Bailey

Austin Bailey is a published playwright, actor, and children’s theatre director who loves to share the gospel and Biblical truths through deep and often comedic storytelling. His works range in length from short radio dramas to two-act musicals, including most recently “Babble-On! The Musical Story of Daniel”. His favorite Bible verse is Colossians 3:23, and he seeks to live his life by it: “In everything you do, do it with ALL your heart, as unto the Lord.”

He has worked with Celebration Church for the last four years, and cherishes the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with others who wish to bring light to the world through the power of stories.

Austin Blythe

Hi! I'm Austin Blythe, a passionate music instructor who you'll often see playing piano on stage during services at Celebration Church. Music has been my lifelong ambition, starting with classical piano at age six. Since then, I've explored many different genres and instruments.

With a Bachelor's degree in Piano Performance and Business Marketing from ETSU, I bring a well-rounded approach to teaching. My experience includes extensive vocal training, choral performances, piano competitions, and a national award for music theory.

Whether you're a beginner eager to learn or an experienced musician seeking to refine your skills, I'd love to help you on your musical journey!

Contact: ablythemusic@gmail.com

Kennah Crumbley

My name is Kennah Crumbley, and I am a rising High-school senior. I have been staff at Worship arts for 3 years now, and enjoy it so much! I have a background in Colorguard and worship flags within our ministry, and have done dance classes the past few years with our ministry as well. I have assisted with older worship flags classes several years in a row, and last year had the opportunity to  introduce and teach Worship Flags Minis! I am a part of several ministries within Celebration Church, including Children’s Ministry prek, the Special Needs Team, and Youth Leadership with Celebration Youth Ministry. I have a home bakery, Kennah’s Cakes & Creations, that I have lead for almost four years now where I make custom wedding, birthday, baby shower, and special occasion cakes and treats! I love working with young kiddos and helping them grow in understanding of their learning needs, and get to worship the most precious name we all know, Jesus, with them!! 

Contact: kennahcrumbley@gmail.com

Bridgette Davis

Bridgette began her Interpretive Movement career 21 years ago in Charleston, South Carolina when she was invited to learn a dance based on sign language at the church her family attended. She pursued knowledge in sign language and the arts throughout high school and college but interpretive movement allowed her to worship God using both loves. Bridgette gave her life to Christ at the age of 10 years old and met who would become her husband just 3 years later. Bridgette attended Appalachian State University, where she pursued a career in Broadcast Production and Film, but true fulfillment came through her family and using her God given talents and skills to worship God and point others to Him. Bridgette is a wife and mother of four daughters, two grandsons and one granddaughter. She plays the piano, loves surf fishing , and dancing. Interpretive movement through the years, has become a family affair and Bridgette is thrilled to teach alongside her daughters.

Kayla Davis

My name is Kayla Davis, and I am 22 years old. I have had a passion for worshiping the Lord through Interpretive Movement ever since I was four years old. My family attended a church in Charleston SC for many years until we moved. At that church there was a worship arts ministry and Interpretive Movement was one of their ministries. My two older sisters and my mother were on the team and I saw how they loved to worship the Lord through IM. I knew that someday I would be beside them praising the Lord. When I was five, I signed up for the team and was finally doing what I loved. I was with the IM team for four years before my family moved. I have a love for worshiping the Lord through IM and I am excited to continue to teach others. As hobbies, I like to read, paint, ballroom dance, be out in nature, and I love to knit, but my passion is to teach others to praise the Lord through Interpretive Movement.

Contact: kaylagraced123@gmail.com

Tabetha Davis 

My name is Tabetha Davis and I'm 19 years old. This will be my first year teaching Hip Hop 3 and Interpretive Movement 4! I am also honored to be assisting with Interpretive movement 2. I have taught or assisted in multiple classes for the last six years but grew up in The Worship Arts Ministry. I have loved being an actress with Bristol Theater, Celebration Church Theater, Crossroads Community Church, and have been on the Paramount stage many times. I am so honored to have the opportunity to be a part of the choreography team for this year’s play “Elijah “. I love to turn my talents and love for dance and theater into a form of worship. Some of my hobbies include aerial hoop, aerial silks, trapeze, and acting. I love rising to new challenges and I'm always ready to conquer the next stunt, new acting role, or big thing, and if I can honor God through the process, it always makes what I'm doing worth it.

Oleg Diulda

I am excited to offer you the opportunity to learn how to play the drums to praise God through music! Playing this powerful instrument not only helps unlock your creative potential but also brings you closer to God, allowing you to enjoy the process and the beauty of music.

My main focus is rock, worship, and gospel. My goal is to teach you to a level where you can confidently and joyfully play the drums, enjoying this wonderful instrument and using it to praise God.

From the age of 10 to 13, I taught myself to play drums, and then I had a teacher who helped me make rapid progress. Since the age of 13, I've been playing in a worship band at church and continue this ministry to this day. Over the years, I've gained extensive experience performing at Christian conferences and recording music, including an album with the band Gloryquake. I know how important a good mentor is, and I am ready to help you grow faster.

I work with students aged 6 and older. In our lessons, we will focus on proper hand technique, coordination of hands and feet, and, over time, we will learn to read music and play from sheet music. I will also teach you how to pick out song parts by ear and help you learn any song you’d like.

If you want to learn to play the drums and use this talent to glorify God, I would be happy to help you achieve that goal!

Email: olegdiulda@gmail.com

Ben Ellis

Jesus Christ called me to be his disciple when I was a young child.  I can well remember sitting between my parents and asking Jesus to come into my heart and be Lord of my life.  He also called me, early in life, to learn how to worship Him through music - specifically through playing the violin/fiddle.  He has been guiding and developing me in this talent for more than 30 years.  More than 20 years ago, He gifted me with the desire and provided the opportunity to begin passing on to others what He has taught me about worshiping through this art form.  I am excited to get to teach and guide you as you learn to worship Him in this way!

Chelsey Graves 

“Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth! Sing to the Lord, bless His name!” 

Psalm 96:1-2a

This is my prayer… We will sing a new song to the Lord that will bless His name; if that’s through voice, instrument, dance, or something else!

Worship has been a core part of my life since I can remember. I would say it is the first way I felt the Holy Spirit's sweet presence. Teaching and guiding people to play or sing music is something I feel the Lord has called me to do. This allows others to be able to experience and express their love for the Lord in a way they might have never been able to before, through singing or playing music. 

In high school, I started learning more about leading worship by taking piano and voice lessons and having the opportunity to lead worship in youth group and at church. This continued in college when I went to Northern Illinois University. There I had many singing opportunities including: singing in their top choir, taking voice lessons, singing with a professional choir called Cor Cantiamo, and having a side gig of singing for a Methodist church choir. Throughout that time, I was also able to teach piano to beginners and lead worship for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. 

Once I graduated, I moved to Tennessee to marry my sweet Jamie. There I continued teaching piano until we moved to Bristol in 2017. In 2018 we started going to Celebration. In that same year we started leading worship in the Incurrent service which then later merged with the main service. 

2020 came around and we felt the Lord pushing us towards adoption. In 2021 the Lord brought Adira to us. By 2024 we were blessed with not only adopting Adira, but also her siblings Johannah and Jonathan. All of life in Jesus is worship, and it is beautiful.

I am so honored to be a part of the Worship Arts Ministry where I get to teach people more about worship and see what “singing a new song” looks like for them in their  journey with Christ! What a dream!

I’m looking forward to getting to know you more and walking beside you in your walk with the Lord.

Jamie Graves

Hello! My name is Jamie and two things I really love are Jesus and music. It is an honor to be called to teach and mentor the next generation of worshippers through music and discipleship.

I hold a BA degree in general music from Northern Illinois University, and a MA in music education from Carson Newman University.  I specialize in beginner to advanced keyboard and vocal lessons, as well as beginner to intermediate guitar.  

I use curriculum based on ability that is age appropriate and catered to each individual’s learning style.  During initial conversations, I like to get a feel for your goals and expectations through open conversations about why you or your child are interested in taking private lessons.  A brief history (if any) of you or your child’s musical background helps to shape the curriculum and get the most out of your lessons!  

My personal journey with music started when I took piano lessons at a young age.  I always loved singing in the show and concert choirs through middle and high school.  Working hard to learn the music, and then having those musical moments was always an oasis in a sometimes tumultuous world.  While I was not walking very close with the Lord at that time, I knew him and he met me many times while singing sacred and contemporary text about him.  

After high school, I went to the University of Tennessee where I swam on the swim team and majored in Psychology.  While I had success in the pool, my walk with the Lord continued to stray during this time.   I did pick up the guitar from and still loved music, but worship was foreign to me.  

Post college (before I went back again) I played in a band called Memphis 4 Now where I wrote songs, sang and played keys and percussion.  It was during this time that the Lord really started to call me back.   I started attending a small church across the street (New Beginnings Fellowship) and was involved in worship.   It was here that I was baptized.   While there was still a lot of sin in my life, this was a turning point 

In 2010, I felt completely lost without direction.  I had no money, my relationships were broken and I was running from the Lord.  I still attended church but was not getting fed.  I made the decision to go back to school to study music at Northern Illinois University.  That first year, the Lord healed some hurting places in my heart, in part through reading A Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren.  This was a catalyst for change as I began to fall in love with my creator.   I’ll never forget walking to choir class that fall day feeling the “peace that surpasses human understanding”.   

It was shortly thereafter where I met my future wife Chelsey.  She had a strong faith and incredible family that loved the Lord.  The Lord gave me the stability I needed, and a women that really loved the Lord.  

Musically, I was being exposed to a wide variety of music.  From baroque to classical and beyond, jazz, contemporary, even world music like gamelon ensemble!  I particularly loved music theory, and was able to apply what I was learning into the songs we were singing in choir, as well as some of the songs I was writing.  I felt like I finally had the tools to pursue what I loved!

After NIU, I moved to Tennessee to work on our family farm.  Shortly thereafter, I signed on as the graduate assistant swim coach at Carson Newman University as I could take free master level classes in music education.  It was here that I completed my Masters Degree and gained certification to teach K-12 music in the public school system.  I continued to help lead worship at Providence Church during this time.  

After applying to numerous music education positions, I was not getting hired.  The head swim coach position at King University opened up and the athletic director reached out and asked if I was interested.   A few weeks later, I accepted the position and Chelsey and I moved to Bristol where I ended up coaching the swim team for the next four years.  I continued to sing in the faculty choir, and started helping with worship at Celebration Church with Jon Meo.  This is where worship began to really take off, and my walk with the Lord began to as I learned how to start surrendering my life to him.  

In ecember of 2020, Chelsey and I began a journey that has shaped and refined me more than any other period in my life.  After six years of infertility, we said yes to the Lord and began our adoption journey.  There are too many God moments to possibly write down, but what started as a yes with no idea what would happened, turned  into three precious babies from the same mother!  He gives us the deepest desires of our hearts, as he is the one that puts them there!  All the things of this world could never compare to his beauty and splendor.  

My hope is that through this musical journey we are about embark upon, that the music that we make would echo the deepest parts of his heart for you. 

Romans 8:28 “And we know that for those who love the God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Eliana Grisenti

Hi! My name is Eliana Grisenti and I am 19 years old. I'm so excited to get to start my sixth year of teaching in Worship Arts classes! I've gone to Celebration Church all my life, and I've been doing things with Worship Arts since I was in early elementary school. I live on a farm, and I have 6 sisters. I love people, animals, dance, drama, and Jesus. I can't wait to experience more about Him in tap class with you!

Contact: efgrisenti2@gmail.com

Reagan Hamelryck

 I am so excited to be a part of the worship arts staff this year! This past year I was the art teacher for a local elementary school teaching pre-k  through 5th grade art classes. I have a bachelor's degree in studio art from ETSU with a minor in education as well as my Master’s of arts in teaching from ETSU. I have  taught art for 3 years in our public school systems. I have also taught several art classes for Celebration Church and classical conversations homeschooling. In college I focused my art career in Ceramics and enjoyed making functional serving vessels. As an Applachian artist I hope to capture the beauty of my community in every work of art I create. Most of my work revolves around the theme of human connectedness. It is my belief that our world can be a dark place at times. Art is my tiny contribution of bringing light back in. My greatest sense of joy comes from my knowledge of my Creator. My goal is to glorify Him in every aspect of my life and my hope is that my art reflects that. I love that art is a powerful form of communication that gives people a chance to share their voice in times where words may fail and as a teacher I hope to give my students the tools they need in order to share their voice. I am a firm believer that everyone can develop art skills through practice and I try to show my students that their abilities are connected to their effort.

        I am 25 years old and I grew up in Bristol Tennessee. I attended Celebration Church for 13 years. In college I met my fiance and started attending Bridwell Heights Presbyterian with his family. I have been a part of Bridwell Heights for about 6 years now. Growing up in church I always knew the gospel and thought I was saved; however, it wasn’t until my freshman year of college when I set off on a goal to read the entire Bible that God changed my heart. During this year God revealed to me who He was, who I am, and why I so desperately needed the gospel. That year God saved me. I am so thankful God opened the doors for me to be a part of the worship arts ministries in this season of my life, and I look forward to teaching my students how we as artists can glorify the greatest artist in all that we make.

Jaime Harper

Contact: jharperccwam@gmail.com

Robin Henson

The Lord instilled in me a passion for music that has existed since I can remember. I sang my first solo in church at age 4. Throughout the years, I've had opportunities to sing a variety of styles of music including classical, broadway, choral, country, and more. I also love to sing in other languages. I graduated from Liberty University, and have a Bachelor of Science degree in Multidisciplinary Studies: Christian Counseling/Special Education/Music. I have experience in vocal coaching as well as directing young adults' and children's choirs. As I began to grow in my walk with the Lord, He gave me a desire to focus on worship music as I longed to sing to Him and to lead others to Him. Currently, I help lead worship at Celebration Church and at various events when the Lord allows.  God uses music in different ways: prayer/form of communication to Him, emotional, mental, and spiritual healing, as a creative outlet, and more. I'm grateful to the Lord for the healing He's brought about in my own life through music. 

I'm currently available for vocal coaching (any age). While our music focus will be Christ centered, I am beyond happy to focus on different vocal styles. I can also work with you on harmonizing if you wish! I welcome children and adults with special needs (different abilities). Children with special needs such as Autism may struggle to communicate. However, songs often speed up the vocabulary process and oftentimes, a child may sing before speaking. No doubt, God uses music in so many ways! I look forward to working with you!

Psalm 100:1-2- Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing! 

Contact: robinmh1@gmail.com

Trina Jones

 I was raised in the Tri-cities area by my father who was a faithful preacher and my dedicated mother who homeschooled me and my two sisters. Growing up I enjoyed crafting, drawing, painting and creating. In my teen and young adult years, I babysat, nannied and worked in child care and youth ministries. I have a Bachelor of Arts from Lexington Baptist Bible College. I also enjoyed a short career in mural painting and drawing portraits. Then in 2010, I obtained my dream career and became a mother. Now I spend my days homeschooling my three blessings, creating and crafting with them. I began sewing in my young adult years. I learned from my mother and online tutorials. After becoming a mother I began sewing baby items and that is when a true love of sewing ignited in me. This led me to start Sew and Serve in 2018 at Celebration Church. It is my heart and passion to teach sewing (SKILL), God’s heart (SCRIPTURE) and using our talents to minister to others (SERVING). “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” I Peter 4:10.

Contact: tjonesccwam@gmail.com

Laurel Lawrence

Hi, I am Laurel Lawrence. I am the hip hop 1 and 2 teacher,and have been blessed by the opportunity to share my faith and my love for the Lord. Dancing and praising the Lord is my life. There is nothing I enjoy more. Throughout the 9 years that I have participated in the Worship Arts Ministry,  I have been challenged and encouraged by the amazing teachers who have helped me improve my skills and love for dance. The Lord has blessed me and I can't wait to teach the Worship Arts students about Him!

Contact: Laurel.oneworship@gmail.com

Contact: lawrence.laurela@icloud.com

Maddie Sue Means

Loving the Lord and loving twirl and dance is my life. My name is Maddie Sue, and I am 16 years old. For the past 9 years I have been worshipping God with The Worship Arts Ministry at Celebration Church. I have been dancing for the Lord since I was 5 and have loved every moment of it! I have also taken dance with Centre for the Performing Arts and have been in several of the theater productions at Celebration. I have been twirling for almost 6 years starting at Sullivan Central Middle School, I was the team captain my 8th grade year. I am currently a West Ridge High School Majorette and have am continuing with it for my junior year of high school. Some things I enjoy are: dancing, twirling, reading, swimming, the beach, biking, painting, spending time with my family, working on my farm, spending time with my horse, and serving the Lord. I look forward to helping your children build their relationship with Christ!

Contact: maddiesmeans@gmail.com

Andrea Moormans

I love the arts in all forms - especially when used to worship and praise our Creator.  To me, sign language has always seemed such a  beautiful and expressive way to communicate. My first real exposure came after becoming a disciple of Jesus, when the first person I studied the Bible with was deaf.  I muddled through, learning as much from her about signing as she did from me about the Scriptures and the Lord worked through those efforts.  She was baptized and became our sister in Christ.

More than 30 years ago, while serving in countries that used to be a part of the Communist bloc, I took my first sign language class. I later learned there are over 300 different sign languages worldwide, each with its own structure and culture, so I welcomed the opportunity to study American Sign Language at Celebration Church alongside our daughters 15 years ago.

I primarily use “Pidgin” signing, which blends ASL signs with English word order and is often used to bridge communication between Deaf and hearing communities and in signing songs of worship.

Learning sign language has opened my eyes to a visually beautiful form of worship and human connection. I love Jesus, and I find praise and worship through sign language to be a captivating way to share His beauty and truth.

Tess Moormans

Hi, I’m Tess! I was raised in a Christian home and made the personal decision to follow Jesus when I was 13. Since then, my relationship with Him has shaped both my life and my passion for the arts.

I first became involved in worship arts through a church play at Celebration when I was five years old. Although I was very shy, that experience sparked a love for storytelling, creativity, and using the arts with purpose. Over the years, I’ve trained in acting through the Barter Theatre Youth Academy and performances at the Paramount in Bristol, while also studying multiple forms of dance, singing, visual arts, and film.

Later, participating in Hands of Vision at Celebration introduced me to interpretive worship and sign language ministry, and eventually led to becoming a full-time interpreter for a local church. Recently, I attended a summer guild with Lamplighter Theatre in New York, studying voice-over work, sound design, interpretive dance, and visual arts.

Each of these opportunities, including The Worship Arts Ministry  impacted me deeply and gave me opportunities to point people to the Ultimate Author and Creator. My heart for teaching (and learning!) comes from wanting to help others grow in confidence, creativity, and worship while using the gifts God has given them. I’m excited to be part of a local team that shares a vision for bringing heaven to earth through the wide array of talents God has given us.

Jennifer Ogden

Contact: redchihuahua77@hotmail.com

Ariel Poteat

I love seeing people of all ages praising God and I find great joy in helping them glorify God through dance. I started dancing right before my second birthday and I have never stopped. I have enjoyed ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, liturgical and point but my favorite style of dance is liturgical. A year ago, I joined the Worship Arts Ministry  and it has been a wonderful example of people coming together as a family in Christ to help each other and to encourage each other. It has reminded me to keep my eyes in God when things get difficult. Being surrounded by the people at Worship Arts has helped increase my trust in God. I love spending time with Him in His word and in prayer and look forward to sharing my love of dance and my love for Christ with my students. 

Justin Rayna 

Justin Rayna is a dynamic and award-winning Christian composer, producer, performer, coach, and educator. He has not only served as a drummer for praise and worship teams in Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Virginia, and Tennessee, but is currently the percussion director at Providence Academy in Johnson City and has coached tumbling, gymnastics, and circus arts for over 20 years. Utilizing a Progressive Tumbling Program that he designed himself after years of experience, Justin has been the tumbling program director for Louisiana Athletics and East Tennessee Cheer & Gymnastics.

Largely auto-didactic with his own skill development, Justin's coaching training includes years of working for high powered gymnastics gyms like Artistic Sports Academy Plus in Harrisburg, PA under the (then) state chairman for men's gymnastics, Barry Mattern, and other world-class coaches such Greg Kucera and the 1980 Seoul Korea Olympics All-Around Gold Medalist Vladimir Artemov. Formerly a USAG certified coach, Justin also has a collegiate diploma in Physical Fitness from Ashworth University (online) and is AACCA Spirit Safety Certified.

But more importantly than his earthly credentials, of the five-fold ministry outlined in Ephesians 4:11, "teaching" is Justin's gifting and calling. Honoring the Lord through the use of this gifting as well as being obedient to the call is Justin's primary focus and motivation for reaching generations by instilling discipline and skills in a manner that is governed by Biblical principles and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Being a creative, the Worship Arts Ministry has provided an outlet for witnessing through the use of performative and artistic gifts. Cultivating those gifts through Worship Arts programs has led to Spirit-filled, full-time career paths that are ripe with opportunities to witness throughout the process. And while every task can have a toll that it takes, the peace that coincides with even the most difficult tasks is one that "passes understanding" when aligned with God's will and design for your life.

"Pray without ceasing," the Bible says, and that ongoing conversation with Jesus is the unifying thread of all my days and the choices within each of those days. Some days that conversation looks like audible words departing my mouth. Other days the conversation is simply understood through hearing the music He creates through me as I listen back. And some days the conversation is jumping backwards over my own head in celebration of what He has made me. "Whatever [I] do, [I] do it all to the glory of God."

Sarita Rayna

Sarita Rayna has been serving through worship and dance since 2010, when she and her husband, Justin, began traveling on mission trips to Central America with Open Eyes Ministries. In her youth, she trained in competition cheerleading and show choir, which later inspired her to teach Zumba and Latin dance—a passion she has continued for the past 17 years.

Sarita now directs Salsa Tricities, a Latin dance school where she teaches couples in her home studio as well as students in local Spanish classes. Her children often join her to demonstrate the musicality of traditional instruments such as congas, claves, and cowbells. By studying, preserving, and sharing her Puerto Rican heritage, Sarita feels called to help unite a multi-ethnic community through music and dance.

Kyle Sacculo

I am more than amazed and excited to bring the art of the sword to the Worship Arts Ministry as a way to build Godly character. Ever since beginning my training in this sport, I have wanted to pour into young people to prepare them for the challenges of life. The synchronization of the arts with practical spiritual applications has been a lifelong passion and I am excited to share my skills to the betterment of those in attendance.

Riley Sparks

My name is Riley Sparks. I am 16 years old, and this is my third year assisting the Worship Arts Ministry. I love chess, and I have been able to play in multiple chess tournaments over the last few years. In 2023 I discovered my love for the game of chess. Chess quickly became my favorite game, and I would always play chess in my free time. I began to study the game of chess through online videos, books, and playing many chess games. Chess can be used to teach many important attributes that we as Christians can use in our lives. It can teach players humility, patience, and strategizing among many other qualities. I always love the ability to minister to others, and getting to use the game of chess to share the gospel is something really special to me. Worship Arts holds a special place in my heart, and this program has been able to kickstart a new generation of enthusiastic chess players that get to learn chess, and hear the Gospel at the same time.

Nancy Strickler

I am honored to serve the Worship Arts program and its students for a fourth year. A Kingsport native, I began my journey in the arts at age five, training for 14 years in various forms of dance, including ballet, tap, and tumbling. The highlight of my time in the arts was 15 years in color guard—five as a performer and ten as a coach for competitive, award-winning programs in East Tennessee. Over the last three years, I have loved teaching Pre-Dance and Worship Flags, while also serving as the Backstage Manager to ensure our students are supported and organized behind the scenes.

Professionally, I have spent nearly two decades as a Social Worker, continuing the passion for children and families that God has placed on my life. My background in child development deeply informs my teaching, as I believe the classroom is a space to teach more than just movement. It is an opportunity to build worship and valuable life skills—like focus, discipline, teamwork, and respect—helping students grow in both faith and confidence.

My goal is to provide a solid technical foundation, giving students the tools they need to find their creative voice and use the arts as a genuine form of worship, honoring Him with their whole hearts.

Contact: nancy_strickler@yahoo.com

Debbie Thomas

My name is Debbie Thomas. Worship music is my offering to Jesus—it's all I have to give. With a surrendered soul, I sing His praises for the sacrifice He made, dying for my sins. I have been singing with the CC worship team for almost 4 years.  This has led to me leading kids worship with Mrs. Cindy Green.  I feel God has sent me on a journey to truly know what it means to worship.  I have learned so much during my time with the worship team and now feel it is time to share that with young students. I want them to know what worship is, what it is not, and why we worship in this way. I want them to understand that we can lead others in worship but we are not the focus of attention. We sing to Him in adoration, it helps connect us as a body of believers and strengthens our faith.  My biggest goal is to let them lead with their own hearts of praise. I remind them that we are to leave our fears and pride backstage.  He is to be exalted.  

I have extensive training in singing with 7 plus years of vocal training.  I continue to study furthering my own understanding of music theory.  Away from worship arts, I teach 3rd grade at Mary Hughes School in Piney Flats.  I love watching children grow and seeing the “ah-ha” moments when they master a skill or task.  

Jesus is my joy, my light, and my best friend.  I want to share my love for music and worship with the next generation and prepare them with His guidance.  

Victoria Trent

I have walked with the Lord for many years, but I am continually learning, growing, and seeing Him in new ways. It’s a privilege to begin teaching with Worship Arts again! Worship Arts has been a huge part of my walk with the Lord, and I have been dancing, teaching, painting, acting, etc. for more than 15 years. I taught Pre-Dance previously, as well as an art class before getting married to my precious Noah and moving to Knoxville. We have two babies in heaven (Elroi and Tehillah) and one fun doggo here with us, whom we affectionately call “Kabodie-Odie”.
The arts is one of the ways Holy Spirit speaks to me, and my desire is to make more disciples of HIM and His artistic nature! I’m excited to be a part of what He’s doing!

StellieMay Whitesides

Elisabeth Winters

My family has been a part of the Worship Arts Ministry and Celebration Church for the past seven years. It has been a joy to see significant growth in both talent and our walk with the Lord through many dance, music, and art classes. I came to know Jesus as my savior while in college and have helped with various missions and mercy ministries throughout the years.  For the past 11 years I have homeschooled my children and have had the opportunity to teach several different art and craft classes to children of many ages. Some of my favorite activities are watercolor painting, crochet, knitting, and embroidery. I consider it to be a great privilege and responsibility to serve in this ministry and I am incredibly thankful for it. 

Contact: winterymix3@gmail.com

Mariam Winters

Hi, my name is Mariam Winters and I will be teaching the Mini Masterpieces art and craft class! I have been so blessed to be involved in the Worship Arts family for the past 8 years, 3 of them as a staff. Durring this time I have taken multiple art and dance classes, and though these I feel I grown abundantly in not only the skills being taught, but also my walk with God.  I am so thankful for this opportunity to pour God's love into the hearts of your children. One if my favorite scriptures is 1 Timothy 4:8-10, "For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.”