Diane Brubakken, who has served as AFLC Parish Education’s administrative assistant for 14 years, has accepted a new position with AFLC Home Missions. We are deeply grateful for all Diane’s work to support Parish Ed in making trustworthy, biblical materials accessible to our congregations and for her helpful service to our customers. To honor her contributions to this ministry, we asked her some questions about her time with Parish Ed. 

How has your experience as the administrative assistant for Parish Ed changed the way you think about Christian education? How has it influenced your own perspective on and/or involvement with Christian education in your church? 

While I have always valued the role of education and learning in my life, my experience in PE has deepened my appreciation for the quality of materials we are able to provide (either through our own publishing or from other publishers). Having resources with a solid biblical foundation are vital not only for individual spiritual growth but also for nurturing a congregation grounded in truth. The reality is that not all resources labeled “Christian” faithfully adhere to biblical teachings, meaning we have to be more discerning in what we provide and promote. So being able to provide materials that stand firmly on God’s Word is something I greatly appreciated in my time here.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time with Parish Ed? 

I don’t know that I have one “favorite” memory. The people I’ve gotten to work with, the projects I’ve gotten to work on, and the events I’ve gotten to attend over the years have all blessed (and challenged) me in so many ways, that they all factor in to the memories I will carry with me as I take this next step God has brought me to.

What has been the most fulfilling opportunity or project you have been involved with in Parish Education? 

There have been many fulfilling projects over the years. A few that stand out are the three Heritage Series books I’ve been able to be involved with during my time here. Footprints of the Faithful, One Thing I Seek, and From Freedom to Life (Volumes 4, 5, and 6 of the Heritage Series) were massive undertakings. The time spent assisting with them (and getting to read them in the process), while stressful at times, provided so many insights not only into the publishing process, but also as I worked with content that was both interesting and edifying to read.

What is one thing you want people to know about the ministry of AFLC Parish Education? 

The significant amount of time, prayer, and careful consideration that goes into all the various parts of this ministry. It can be easy to see only the finished products—the published book, or updated curriculum, etc.—and miss all that happens in the day-to-day to keep things moving forward. The behind-the-scenes work that is done by the PE board, and everyone in the office, is vital to this ministry.

Read the rest of our Summer '25 newsletter here.