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David Thielen

amesromerohouse

David Thielen is, in many ways, a son of  Ames. He lived in the area as a young man, attending Gilbert schools from 8-12th grade when his family settled here for his father’s job at Iowa State. He received a degree in journalism from Iowa State before moving to Chicago to begin his career. His parents and siblings remained rooted here while he followed work to Milwaukee, the DC area, and most recently California. 

As family does, David returned home, about a year ago, committed to the place and wanting to give back, something instilled in him by his upbringing. From his earliest days, David’s parents trained him up in faith and Catholic social teaching. Their works of mercy showed him what “love your neighbor” means.

“One of my earliest memories of mercy is a Christmastime from my childhood,” said David. “I was still young enough that I didn’t realize all the different lives people can have and how much people can need.” Like any young boy, David wanted Christmas presents and feasting, but his mother had better plans for him. 

“Mom had us buy presents for a family from our church. She made a huge Christmas meal for them that we all took to their house,” said David.  His father, mom, and five siblings showed up with gifts and food, and the abundance made for a joyful day.

After they shared the holy day with their fellow parishioners, the interaction profoundly affected David’s spiritual life and understanding of the Father’s love. His parents continued to shape his values, both of whom he considers generous, humble people. His father especially emphasized the importance of listening to people.

The opportunity to listen to people, to receive their stories, and help them find hope in their circumstances that draws David to the Ames Romero House mission. 

“Just like that Christmas from long ago, the Romero House reminds me that helping is as simple as a good conversation and a plate of food,” said David. “Learning from the troubles and challenges of the guests blesses me.” Not only does it remind him to have gratitude for his life, but it also shows him where he can help.

“I’m excited to use my love of business, skills gained from my career, to care for the people of Ames,” David said. “My vision for the House is ensuring that people continue to get their 3-4 hour reprieve during the day.” 

David says his desire to serve God and give his life to Him wholly and fully reignited about six years ago. Jolted into reflecting on his life and its meaning back in 2018, he found himself at his California parish sitting in Adoration

Every day for a year straight, David sat with Jesus, first listening and then asking, “How can I serve you Lord?” His journey led him first to spiritual direction, then regular daily mass, prayer, reconciliation, and participation in the life of the Spirit, all the while he regularly gave his heart to God in Adoration. 

“I love the transformation in my life. You know, I feel like a boring guy, but I love my routine,” said David. “I get to wake up and walk, and while I walk, I get to pray the Rosary, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and have conversations with the Saints. I ask for their help a lot, and I have some favorites. St. Faustina, St. Anthony, St. Gertrude, St. Christopher, St. John Paul II, and St. Padre Pio. We need their prayers.” 

These daily steps of faith and hearing Jesus’ call brought him back to Ames, where he waited for God to show him his ministry. He considered priesthood, but age limits precluded him from serving in that vocation. That’s when he found the Executive Director position at the Ames Romero House. The role’s duality–part pastoral care and formation, part executive management–drew him in.

“The combination of business, to bring in money to support services and share the mission’s narrative, while at the same time working with live-ins, volunteers, and the board to care for and encourage the people who come through the house and provide accompaniment through RCIA, listening, praying for them, and Friday house mass: all things I love to do on a daily basis, but now it’s my job. It’s just amazing,” said David. 

As Executive Director, David wants more people to become aware of what’s already available through the Romero House. As he listens to the community and identifies its needs, he seeks to enhance the services the House already provides. He especially desires to increase communication and increase involvement. 


“I want to share our message. If we can give people opportunities… If we can help people love God by loving our neighbor, we will see the gentleness of the souls we encounter.”


–interview conducted by Leah Miller 



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709 Clark Ave

Ames, Iowa 50010, USA

(515) 337-8088

Hours of Operation

Mon - Fri: 1pm - 4pm

​​Saturday: Closed

​Sunday: 10:30am - 4pm

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