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.

We are so thankful to have Ann & Julie here to help lead us in congregational song while we go through the process of hiring new music staff!

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