Ryan comes to Stanley Park by way of America (Texas to be precise – and yes, it matters). Ryan is a retired U.S. Army Cavalry Officer. His various assignments included, Anti Armor Platoon Leader, Tank Company Commander, Battalion and Brigade Operations officer, and Battalion Executive officer. Ryan retired from military service in 2013 at the rank of Major.
During his time in military service, Ryan has lived in seven U.S. states and three other countries. Ryan met his wife Amanda while serving in Louisiana. Amanda was also serving in the U.S. Army at the time, as an Engineer Officer (she’s the smart one).
Since leaving military service Ryan has served in various church assignments since 2013. These include associate pastor for music and evangelism, executive pastor, and currently pastor of Stanley Park Church. The Thiessen family was called to the UK through an unusual set of circumstances that included digitally preaching from Texas and a bit of help from COVID (it’s an interesting story, if you have a few minutes).
Ryan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University, In Stephenville, Texas, as well as a Master of Divinity Degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Army’s Combined Arms and Services Staff School as well as the Command and General Staff College.
Ryan and Amanda have been married since 2000 and are blessed to have 2 amazing children, Samuel and Sarah.