Clergy
Rabbi Ryan Newfield
Shalom and hello,
Stemming from a Rabbinic family that has roots in the 11th century, you could say being a Rabbi is in my genes. My passion for spiritual soul searching began before my bar mitzvah when I studied the Torah with my late grandfather. I explored Rabbinic studies at academies in South Africa, Israel, and the USA while also graduating in Mathematics in the process.
After Rabbinic graduation from an eight-year program, I started working in the business world in Southern California as a business consultant and marketing associate for five years, which allowed me to understand what life entails outside academic walls.
Yet my calling brought me back to Rabbinic leadership. Since taking my first pulpit, I have enjoyed creating efficiency in community building based on my business background, as well as helping others find spiritual pathways to happiness. Faith is not a destination, but a journey of continuous discovery. Through insightful teachings and compassionate presence, I aim to inspire communities to cultivate resilience, embrace empathy, and discover the extraordinary within the ordinary. The goal is to live with a heart attuned to the rhythms of human experience. Rather than offering prescriptive answers, I try to foster a space for authentic dialogue, encouraging individuals to explore their own spiritual paths and find meaning in the everyday.
Blending knowledge of ancient traditions with my international travel experience as a backpacker in over 60 countries, I seek to find universal paths that help others live productive and inspirational lives.
When I am not lecturing, leading prayer services, and counseling, I enjoy playing guitar, doing yoga, hiking, surfing, writing, and meditating.
I am accompanied by my wife Andrea Rivkah, a biologist from Colombia, and our two young children, Haia and Asher, who bring smiles to those around us wherever we go.
With love and respect / "BeAhavah and BeKavod"
Rabbi Ryan
Staff
Morah Jessie
Director of Education & Youth Engagement Ner Tamid Shul School (NTSS), Kadima & USY
Jessie joined the Ner Tamid staff in summer 2020, continuing a long career in Jewish education.
Growing up in Sacramento, she was active in USY and spent several summers as a camper and then counselor at an overnight Jewish summer camp. Jessie participated in Nativ, USY’s gap-year program in Israel, then moved to San Diego and began working in the Jewish community. After graduating from San Diego State University with a BA in Religious Studies, she completed her Masters in Jewish Education at Hebrew College. She has served in a variety of roles within the San Diego Jewish community working with teens and children. She is married to Josh who grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, and their children are Lillian and Louis.
Through Jewish education, Jessie strives to help children grow and develop with a strong sense of identity and community, while making the experience relevant and engaging.
Please contact Jessie at jessie@nertamidsd.org
Quote: Each child has infinite directions that life can take them. Developing a positive Jewish identity and community gives our children immense strength, purpose, and connection as they take on life’s joys and challenges. What better gift can we give our children than tools to make life meaningful?
Leora Lazarus
Leora Lazarus serves as the Office Manager and a lead member of the Hebrew School teaching staff at Ner Tamid Synagogue, where her extensive background in education and organizational management plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of our community's activities. With over 35 years of experience in developmental preschool and Judaica teaching, Leora brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to her role.
Educated at Barkly House Teachers Training College in Cape Town, South Africa, Leora has made significant contributions both locally in San Diego and internationally. Known affectionately as Teacher Lee for her innovative Play-To-Learn preschool program, and as Morah Leora within the Jewish educational community, she has impacted thousands of children and families with her dedication to learning and Jewish education.
During the lockdown, Leora adeptly transitioned to online platforms, running a successful year-long pre-K program focused on STEAM subjects, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to education in challenging times.
Leora is also a best-selling author of Jewish themed books, such as Tree and Bird—A Havdalah Adventure and The Mask Mitzvah, alongside secular titles like Naughty Norman. Her literary work complements her educational efforts, providing valuable resources for both Jewish and secular learning.
In addition to her educational and literary achievements, Leora offers a range of hand-crafted teaching tools through her Morah Leora Etsy store, further supporting educators and parents in engaging children with meaningful content.
Leora plays a pivotal role at Ner Tamid as an administrator and educator.
