Nebraska Synod ELCA

Diane Harpster has served as the Executive Assistant to Bishop Maas for almost 10 years. Hers is a multifaceted role, incorporating all of the common elements of administrative work—correspondence, record-keeping, accounting, communication, calendaring and the like—along with some very specialized work. Diane has had primary responsibility for maintaining records related to ministers’ roster status (i.e., active, retired, disability, etc.), authorization and renewals for PMAs serving in congregational settings, overseeing call-vote processes and records, keeping track of and preparing for anniversaries of ordinations, arranging details for bishop visits, working with First Call Theological Education retreat details and other matters too numerous to mention.

When asked about how the role has impacted her, Diane says, “I am aware that serving in the role has changed me. I have grown in appreciation for the ministry done in this synod and beyond.” She also comments on the diversity of her role: “I’m grateful for the invitation to be part of this team and to get to have a small part in call processes, ordinations and certifications, first calls, spiritual discernment, and all of the transitions of peoples’ lives in ministry. To get to know so many people and do my part to help them be able to do theirs has been humbling and rewarding.”

Diane will be retiring from her position August 31. Regarding retirement, Diane has noted, “I know that it doesn’t mean that work and service ends by any means. I don’t know what it’s going to look like but I know I’m not done serving.” As for her future plans, she says, “I’m looking forward to time to explore creative pursuits, more opportunities for teaching Zentangle drawing, time for friends and family, and seeing what it is that God has next.”

For all the many ways she has so faithfully and capably served for the past decade, the Nebraska Synod says, “Thank you, Diane!”