About Rabbi Ranon Teller

Senior Rabbi for a Houston Synagogue

Rabbi Ranon Teller is a distinguished spiritual leader with a profound passion for Jewish music, education, and community. His unique background in television writing and music has enabled him to lead his congregation in creative worship, dynamic educational programming, and active community engagement. As the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom in Houston, he has dramatically impacted the spiritual life of his community, transforming prayer services, fostering deep connections, and strengthening membership involvement. His ability to blend Jewish tradition with creativity and community building has made him a highly respected figure within his congregation and the broader Jewish community.

Early Life and Education

Raised in a suburban Detroit home, Rabbi Ranon was the second of three children, and his upbringing was rooted in the values of Orthodox Judaism. His early education began at Orthodox Day School before moving to Skokie Yeshiva High School outside Chicago. After completing high school, he ventured to Israel, where he attended an Orthodox yeshiva. There, he immersed himself in advanced studies of Talmud, Jewish philosophy, theology, and sacred texts. During this time, he began questioning the rigid structures of Orthodox Judaism, sparking a deeper exploration of his spiritual path.

Secular Career Beginnings

Following his time in Israel, Rabbi Teller returned to Chicago and shifted his focus toward more secular interests. Discovering a passion for creative writing, he pursued a degree in television writing at Columbia College Chicago. His work in the television industry included writing and producing a Sunday morning news program called This Week with Wanda Wells. In addition to writing, he became captivated by blues music and learned to play the guitar. This passion led him to perform in a rhythm and blues band, including a memorable gig on Maxwell Street, a historic location known as the birthplace of Chicago blues. Despite his success in the secular world, his connection to his Jewish roots remained strong, and it was not long before he returned to his faith and the Land of Israel.

Rediscovering Judaism

In 1996, Rabbi Ranon Teller returned to Israel with a renewed focus on finding alternative ways to practice and understand Judaism. This led him to explore contemporary Chasidic music and study under the teachings of Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi. After a year of auditing classes at a Conservative rabbinical school in Jerusalem and completing an intensive experiential Jewish education program, he experienced a pivotal moment of realization: his true calling was in Jewish leadership. This revelation prompted his return to the United States in 1998, where he enrolled at the University of Judaism (now American Jewish University) in Los Angeles to pursue Jewish education and rabbinic ordination.

The Road to Becoming a Rabbi

His journey in Jewish learning continued as he pursued education and rabbinic studies. In 2000, he earned his master's degree from the Fingerhut School of Education, receiving the Fingerhut School of Education Award for Outstanding Achievement. In 2002, he was ordained as Rabbi Teller. He was recognized for his academic excellence with the Chancellor's Award for Academic Excellence and the Ziegler School Award for Excellence in Talmudic Studies. These achievements reflected his deep commitment to Jewish scholarship and his passion for teaching and leadership.

Early Career and Leadership in St. Louis

Rabbi Ranon's first significant role in Jewish leadership was at Congregation B'nai Amoona in St. Louis, where he served as associate rabbi from 2002 to 2005. During this period, the congregation faced senior leadership turnover, and he was called upon to provide vision and continuity. He successfully led the congregation through this transitional time, engaging young families and introducing contemporary and interactive prayer services that revitalized the congregation's spiritual life. His innovative leadership impacted the community, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and congregants.

Moving to Houston

In 2005, Rabbi Teller accepted the position of senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom in Houston, where his soulful and personable approach to leadership ushered in a new era of congregational growth. Over the next two decades, he led the congregation through an incredible transformation, creating innovative musical prayer services that attracted diverse congregants and community members. His leadership extended beyond the synagogue walls, as he was crucial in securing a $1.5 million endowment and a $5 million donation toward a building renovation campaign. His vision and diplomacy were instrumental in ensuring the long-term success and growth of the congregation.

Rabbi Teller's Community Involvement

Rabbi Ranon's work extends well beyond the spiritual leadership he provides to his congregation. He is deeply involved in the Houston Jewish community, collaborating with and volunteering for numerous organizations. Among these are the Houston Food Bank, SEARCH Homeless Services, and the Food and Faith Collaborative, where he has worked to help those in need. His partnerships with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and Alexander Jewish Family Service reflect his strong commitment to tikkun olam, the Jewish principle of repairing the world. His tireless efforts in community service underscore his belief in the power of faith to foster positive change.

Family Life

Rabbi Teller enjoys a fulfilling family life with his wife, with whom he has raised four children. Their children have followed diverse paths, but one has expressed a desire to continue the family legacy of Jewish leadership and become a rabbi. The family also enjoys the companionship of their dog, Jessie Afikoman, bringing warmth and joy into their lives. His family plays a vital role in supporting him personally and professionally, and he takes great pride in their accomplishments and aspirations.

Hobbies and Interests

Outside of his rabbinic duties, Rabbi Ranon has a variety of hobbies that enhance his personal and spiritual life. His love for music remains strong, and he continues to play blues and folk guitar and pursue song-leading. He is an avid reader, particularly interested in non-fiction, biographies, and books that offer insights into human nature. In addition to his intellectual pursuits, he enjoys juggling, magic tricks, and outdoor activities such as backpacking and hiking, where he finds a deep sense of spirituality in nature. He has written extensively, contributing articles to Kolot magazine, the Jewish Herald-Voice, and the Jewish Journal. He is also the co-author of the book Peaceful Bones.

Legacy and Future

Rabbi Ranon Teller's influence extends far beyond the walls of his synagogue. His contributions to Jewish worship, community engagement, and spiritual leadership have left an indelible mark on the Jewish community in Houston and beyond. His innovative approach to integrating music, education, and Jewish tradition has shaped the lives of countless individuals, making him a beloved figure in the Jewish faith. As he continues to lead, his legacy of creativity, compassion, and dedication to Jewish values will undoubtedly inspire future generations. His work is a testament to the power of faith and community to make a meaningful impact on the world.