History
In 2001 a college youth group in Santa Barbara began to pray and seek God about reaching out to Isla Vista. Every weekend while hundreds of Christian young people were worshipping and studying God’s word, thousands of their classmates and friends were partying on Del Playa. Eventually, the prayer, worship nights, community barbeques and street evangelism evolved into the planting of a new church.
The church officially began in September of 2002 when a modest group of students met in the front yard of the house at 6686 Del Playa Drive. Led by Pastor Jacob Reeve, the believers continued to reach out to the city from right on Del Playa, interceding every Monday night, serving Jesus Burgers every weekend, and cultivating rich fellowship throughout the year through community living, church retreats, and small groups.
Over the years, the church has been tremendously mobile, meeting across Isla Vista in places like Embarcadero Hall, Isla Vista Elementary, IV Theater, Tropicana Gardens, DS Park, the beach, the prayer shed, and the Cliff House. The style and structure has varied drastically, including more formal chairs-in-rows, house churches, and everything in between.
But no matter the venue, the essence of Isla Vista Church has always been community; learning to live out the Christian life amongst other believers, serving one another in love, and cultivating transparency, honesty and the bond of family.
In 2005, the church purchased Shiloh, a fraternity house on Camino Pescadero that served as a place for believers to live together in community. The church came out from the covering of Calvary Chapel, becoming financially independent. Shiloh existed until 2007. During this time, Jason & Holly Lomelino took over pastoral responsibilities and oversight of the Del Playa ministry houses.
The 2008-09 school year saw a dramatic increase and favor for unity and partnerships with on-campus ministries. Students began attending services and outreaches with Isla Vista Church and bringing their friends on Sundays and to Jesus Burgers. The Isla Vista School of Discipleship (IVSOD) was formed to train and equip people to fulfill the Great Commission by knowing God, developing Christlike character and living a lifestyle of evangelism.
This same year services were held in the Lomelino’s backyard followed by a meal together and plenty of fellowship. The Holy Spirit honored the gathering, building relationships, introducing students to the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and encouraging believers through community life.
