Rabbi Ranon Teller is a passionate spiritual leader who brings a unique perspective to Jewish education, music, and community life. With a background that blends television writing, music, and profound spiritual insight, he has created an inspiring atmosphere at Congregation Birth Shalom in Houston. His innovative approach to worship, educational programming, and community involvement has helped transform prayer services, engage congregants, and strengthen connections within and beyond the Jewish community. As a leader, he strives to bring creative elements into the sacred tradition, making Jewish teachings accessible and meaningful for all.
Born to a prominent family steeped in the traditions of Orthodox Judaism, Rabbi Ranon grew up with strong Jewish values instilled by his parents, Rabbi Dr. Gerald Teller and Judy Teller. Raised in suburban Detroit, he attended Orthodox Day School and, later, the Skokie Yeshiva High School outside Chicago, where he immersed himself in religious studies. After high school, his journey took him to Israel, where he continued his Torah studies at an Orthodox yeshiva, focusing on the Talmud, Jewish philosophy, and sacred texts. However, while there, Ranon began to question some of the fundamental teachings and practices he had been exposed to, leading him to seek alternative paths.
After his time in Israel, Rabbi Teller's journey took a more secular turn. He moved to Chicago, where he found his passion for creative writing and earned a degree in television writing at Columbia College Chicago. This led to a successful career in television, where he contributed to producing a Sunday morning news program. However, his love for music, particularly blues, also took center stage. He learned to play guitar and joined a rhythm and blues band, even performing on Maxwell Street, the heart of Chicago's blues scene. His growing involvement in the secular world never overshadowed his commitment to reconnecting with his Jewish roots, and Ranon found himself drawn back to Israel once more.
Ranon Teller's return to Israel in 1996 marked a turning point in his spiritual journey. This time, he sought alternative forms of Jewish spirituality and began studying contemporary Chasidic music. Through the teachings of Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, Ranon found a new way to connect with Judaism that was less rigid and more inclusive. He spent a year auditing classes at the Conservative rabbinical school in Jerusalem, followed by an intensive Jewish education program. This exploration period helped Ranon realize his true calling was in Jewish leadership, guiding others in their spiritual journeys.
In 1998, Ranon returned to the United States and enrolled at the University of Judaism, now the American Jewish University, in Los Angeles. His pursuit of rabbinic ordination and a degree in Jewish education brought him closer to fulfilling his vision of leading a congregation. He earned his master's degree from the Fingerhut School of Education in 2000 and was honored with several academic awards. By 2002, Ranon was ordained as Rabbi Ranon Teller, a moment that marked the beginning of his leadership journey in the Jewish community.
Rabbi Ranon's leadership journey began in St. Louis, where he served as associate rabbi at Congregation B'nai Amoona from 2002 to 2005. During this time, the congregation underwent significant transitions in leadership, and Rabbi Teller stepped up to provide vision and continuity. His efforts to engage young families and introduce modern, interactive prayer services were highly successful and helped set the stage for his future endeavors.
In 2005, Rabbi Teller moved significantly to Houston, where he became the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom. His approach to leadership, characterized by warmth, diplomacy, and a focus on soulful connections, led to the congregation's rapid growth. During his time there, he created innovative prayer services that incorporated music and new forms of worship, inviting congregants from various backgrounds to participate. Under his leadership, the synagogue saw remarkable successes, including a $1.5 million endowment and a $5 million gift for a significant renovation.
Ranon Teller's work extends far beyond the synagogue walls. He is deeply involved in the Houston Jewish community and has collaborated with organizations such as the Houston Food Bank, SEARCH Homeless Services, and the Food and Faith Collaborative. His commitment to community service is also evident in his work with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and Alexander Jewish Family Service, where he strives to positively impact the lives of those in need.
Rabbi Ranon enjoys a rich family life with his wife, Vicki, and their four children: Ariella, Maya, Jake, and Nava. Nava is interested in following in her father's footsteps and becoming a rabbi. The family also shares their home with a beloved dog named Jessie Afikoman, adding a touch of joy and companionship to their daily lives. His deep love for his family and role as a father and mentor is integral to his overall sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Rabbi Teller is passionate about various hobbies and interests outside his professional life. He continues to enjoy playing blues and folk guitar, finding joy in song-leading, and connecting with others through music. He is also an avid reader, particularly drawn to biographies and books that explore human nature. As a juggler, magician, and outdoor enthusiast, he finds spirituality in nature and often embarks on backpacking and hiking adventures. His diverse talents and interests allow him to connect with others meaningfully, whether through performing arts or exploring the great outdoors.
Rabbi Ranon Teller's influence reaches far beyond his role as a rabbi. His leadership and dedication to the Jewish community have inspired countless individuals to explore their spiritual paths and deepen their connection to Judaism. Whether through his creative worship services, involvement in community outreach, or his commitment to his family, his legacy is one of love, dedication, and service to his congregation and the broader community.
Portfolio Websites: https://rabbiranonteller.com and https://ranonteller.com