Born and raised in the great city of Phoenix, Arizona, Jeremiah Semmler has a deep love for his hometown. Married to his wife, Laramie, for 23 years, they have built a life together centered on faith, family, and community. They are proud parents to three incredible children—Judah, Joel, and Ezra.
Jeremiah has been serving in ministry since 1999, dedicating 16 years to roles as a youth pastor and associate pastor. In 2015, he followed God’s calling to plant CityView Church, where he has joyfully lead a growing congregation and seen lives transformed. Recently, Jeremiah stepped into the role of executive director of the Thrive Baptist Network, where he leads efforts to strengthen and unite churches for greater kingdom impact.
Passionate about the local church, Jeremiah believes in the power of unity among congregations, convinced that churches working together can achieve more than they ever could alone.
In his free time, Jeremiah enjoys running, hiking with Laramie, cheering on his kids in their sports, and unwinding with a good movie. Through all his pursuits, Jeremiah remains committed to seeing the city he loves flourish and to sharing the hope of Christ with all he meets.
Associate Director
Brian Dodridge
Brian was born in Phoenix, and after serving churches in Texas and Tennessee, now once again serves a church in our local Thrive Network, Wellspring Church in Goodyear. Brian is married and has four children. Brian has served on church staffs since 1996, and in those years, 25 years have been in an associate or executive pastor role. Brian enjoys this role and enjoys working with the Thrive Network’s “#2’s” to help encourage them, and to help them serve their pastors and churches effectively.