By 
An Interview with Rabbi Ryan Newfield
When Rabbi Ryan Newfield arrived at Ner Tamid Synagogue last summer, he didn’t just bring along his wife Andrea, their children, and a lifetime of experiences gathered across the world—he also brought a vision for Jewish life rooted in connection, creativity, and joy. We sat down with him to hear what drew him to Poway, why he chose Ner Tamid, and how his vision for Jewish community is already beginning to take shape.
Arrival & First Impressions
L’CHAIM: What first drew you to Ner Tamid?
Rabbi Ryan Newfield: Let me answer that in two ways—first, about Poway, and then about Ner Tamid. When I lived in San Diego 12 years ago, I had never even heard of Ner Tamid. Poway felt far from my home in Carmel Valley. In fact, my strongest memory of Poway back then was getting a traffic ticket one misty night when I went to a shiva home and couldn’t see the “no turn on red” sign! Not the best impression.
But San Diego has changed. Many Jews are moving east for affordability, and I’ve discovered Poway is only 15 minutes from Carmel Valley along the 56 freeway. Today, I see Poway as a scenic, mountain-filled, vibrant place with beautiful walks and lakes. My impression has completely changed—I love it.
And Ner Tamid itself? When I heard that the synagogue was looking for a rabbi, and that it truly lived by its motto of being a “warm, inclusive, and compassionate” community, I was sold. I was looking for a congregation that welcomes the stranger, lives Jewish values, and embraces growth. I feel I’ve found all of that here.
L’CHAIM: Can you share what it felt like to step onto the campus and meet the community for the first time?
RN: My first impression was probably the same as anyone’s: Wow. The sanctuary is stunning—colorful stained-glass windows, high beam ceilings, and probably the best view of any synagogue in San Diego.
Then came the humor. I was asked to do a Q&A with the kids in front of their parents. They asked questions like, “Is an Oreo a sandwich? Is a hot dog one too?” No rabbinic training could prepare me for that! But through their playful questions, I realized: this is a community that is fun, down-to-earth, and real. People here are trying to do good in the world while being themselves. The more I’ve been here, the more I see what gems we have.
L’CHAIM: Why did you choose Ner Tamid as your next chapter?
RN: Honestly, I wasn’t sure I wanted to be a pulpit rabbi again. I considered going back into the business world. But this opportunity—to help build a community in a beautiful part of San Diego, with people who live by the essence of Jewish values—made me rethink everything.
I now believe what we’re creating at Ner Tamid has the potential to become a model for communities worldwide: how to live Jewishly, with joy, in the 21st century.
Vision & Values
L’CHAIM: What vision for Jewish life were you hoping to bring to reality here?
RN: My focus is on creating social opportunities for Jews and for supporters of Israel and spirituality to come together at events that are fun. Technology is a blessing, but too much of it leaves us isolated. People are craving real-life connections.
If we can offer meaningful, joyful experiences—whether on Shabbat, holidays, or throughout the year—we can change lives.
L’CHAIM: What kind of synagogue community do you believe people are longing for today?
RN: Authenticity. People no longer come to synagogue out of guilt or habit. They want
meaningful relationships, connection, and fun experiences. A synagogue has to offer both spirituality and vibrant social opportunities, for every age and stage.
Making Vision Reality
L’CHAIM: How is your vision already coming to life at Ner Tamid?
RN: Firstly, our synagogue services are intimate, authentic, and feel like family. That warmth is what people experience when they walk through our doors, and thankfully, our numbers are growing.
We also launched JAMeets—Jewish American Meets—a social hub with more than 20 groups. From men’s and women’s groups to arts, crafts, learning, social impact, healing, and more, there’s truly something for everyone. We even started the Rabbi Ryan Channel, a weekly WhatsApp message where I share short inspiration before Shabbat.
And for families, we made Shul School tuition-free with membership. It’s a happy, engaging place that connects kids to Judaism through holidays, Shabbat dinners, excursions, and community. With our amazing teachers, it’s a gift for kids and parents alike.
Looking Ahead
L’CHAIM: When you imagine Ner Tamid in five years, what do you see?
RN: I see a community that extends far beyond synagogue walls—a true hub of Jewish life in North County, with daily events and a thriving campus that brings spirituality, friendship, and joy to San Diego.
L’CHAIM: What message would you share with someone in North County looking for a Jewish home?
RN: You will be hard-pressed to find a warmer, more down-to-earth, and more inviting community than ours. We live by our motto: “warm, inclusive, compassionate.
”Visit once, and you’ll feel the family atmosphere. Join when it feels right—we’ll welcome you with red carpet treatment.
L’CHAIM: And finally, one word to sum up this journey?
RN: Can I say four? To infinity and beyond!
With humor, vision, and hope, Rabbi Ryan Newfield is leading Ner Tamid into a joyful new chapter—one that blends tradition with creativity, and community with connection.
Learn more at www.nertamidsd.org.
Comments