welcome
The Santa Ynez Valley Jewish Community offers a broad variety of activities to serve the Jewish families in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. We are affiliated with the Union of Reform Judaism and have been a continuing Jewish presence here in the central part of Santa Barbara County for more than 50 years.
WHO WE ARE
Among our members, you’ll find a diverse mix of individuals and families—artists and winemakers, doctors and teachers, students, retirees, parents, and grandparents.
Some of us were raised Orthodox, Reform, or Conservative. Some of us are just beginning to explore what Judaism means in our lives. All of us are united by curiosity, care, and a commitment to community.
Founded in 2003 and affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), SYVJC hosts regular Shabbat and Torah study, High Holy Day services, and celebrations for Passover, Hanukkah, Sukkot, and more. We've also marked life’s milestones together—from B’nai Mitzvahs to film nights, field trips, and learning opportunities for all ages.
Explore upcoming events on our calendar. →
WHAT IS REFORM JUDAISM?
Throughout history, Jews have remained firmly rooted in Jewish tradition, even as we learned much from our encounters with other cultures. Nevertheless, since its earliest days, Reform Judaism has asserted that a Judaism frozen in time is an heirloom, not a living fountain.
clergy
RABBI DEBI
Phoebe light
Phoebe Light has served as the cantorial soloist for SYVJC since 2022. She enjoys serving the Jewish community and embraces the Jewish values of community, education, social justice, and mitzvot.
Rabbi Deborah Lewis (Rabbi Debi) is a Rabbi as well as an Information Technology professional. After working in the financial industry for most of her career, she decided to exchange her suit for a kippah and a squint (the Talmud is not written in large letters).
Upcoming events.
From services and holidays to conversational sessions and community gatherings, there’s always something happening at SYVJC. Explore what’s coming up and join us when you can—we’d love to see you.