Julie was born on the campus of the University of Wisconsin at Madison. She has lived in Madison, Atlanta, Georgia, and Ames, Iowa before Julie, her parents and her brother Paul finally settled in Mission Viejo, California to escape Midwestern winters. She attended Capistrano Valley High School. She went on to study at the University of California at Irvine where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Art History. Julie has a daughter, Elizabeth Conner, who currently resides in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Julie enjoys a good cheeseburger, good food, food culture and history, tourist traps, and other unique travel locations. She enjoys many modes of transportation such as trains, planes, and ships. Julie likes travel shows and her current favorites are those presented by Rick Steves and Huell Houser.

I’m beginning my fourth year serving as your Music and Worship Arts Director at Community Lutheran Church, where I have had the joy and privilege of being shaped by my Maker as I create alongside you—in worship that is Christ-centered, deeply theological, intentionally crafted, and artistically alive.

My background includes a B.A. in Music from Chapman University, a graduate music teaching credential from Concordia University, an M.S. in Educational Leadership for Faith-Based Institutions from California Baptist University, a Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies with a Theology and Arts Specialization from Fuller Seminary, and my current studies in the M.A. in Counseling program at Concordia University.

Beyond my role at CLC, I teach English Language Arts at Heritage Christian High School, guiding students in developing their Christian imagination through classics, interdisciplinary humanities, poetry, and creative writing. I also work closely with English as a Second Language immigrant students, striving to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that honors their unique cultural backgrounds.

My academic and ministerial work centers on the intersection of theology, the arts, and faith formation, reflecting our shared conviction that worship is not merely an act of praise but a sacred space where Christ transfigures us (2 Cor. 3:18, Rom. 12:2). Here, heaven meets earth; here, we receive incarnationally rather than achieve performatively.

I would love to connect—whether in a conversation about worship, the arts, or your personal faith. Let’s grab coffee, make music together, or take a walk as we reflect on how Christ is shaping us. Please use the Contact form on this website!

Brett grew up in Minnesota and San Francisco, but has been an Orange County resident since 2006. Pastor Matt had the honor of presiding at his wedding to Tori in Summer 2025! Brett attended Chapman University for undergrad, completing a degree in Business Administration and Management. He later completed his MBA in Finance at Chapman as well. Passions outside of work life involve family time, travelling, and golf. We are blessed to have Brett’s skill and passion on our team!

To reach Brett, use the Contact form on this website.

Do you have a question about including the church in your estate plan, or about estate planning in general? Lisa is a great resource for Lutheran congregations throughout our region, and is ready and willing to help. Contact her at:

lisa.higginbotham@elca.org
773-380-2477