About Ranon Teller

Ranon Teller is a dedicated spiritual leader whose deep love for Jewish music, education, and community engagement defines his approach to the rabbinate. With a unique background in television writing and music, he has cultivated an innovative ability to lead his congregation through dynamic worship, meaningful educational initiatives, and impactful community involvement. As the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom in Houston, he has reshaped prayer services, strengthened member engagement, and fostered deep-rooted connections within the Jewish community and beyond. His leadership combines creativity and tradition, making him an influential voice in modern Jewish life.

Raised in a home centered on Orthodox Jewish values, Ranon was the second of three children. His father, a respected rabbi and educator, and his mother, a devoted supporter of Jewish life, instilled in him a strong foundation in faith and learning. He attended Orthodox Day School before continuing his education at Skokie Yeshiva High School near Chicago. After high school, he traveled to Israel to study at an Orthodox yeshiva, where he immersed himself in Talmud, Jewish philosophy, theology, and sacred texts. During this period, he developed a profound understanding of Jewish law and tradition, yet he also began to explore more profound questions about faith, practice, and personal belief.

While studying in Israel, Teller became increasingly disillusioned with the rigid fundamentalism of Orthodox yeshiva life. Seeking a broader intellectual and creative path, he returned to Chicago, where he discovered a passion for storytelling and media. He pursued a degree in television writing at Columbia College Chicago, an experience that honed his ability to communicate complex ideas through narrative. He later worked in television, writing and producing for a Sunday morning news program, where he gained firsthand experience in media production and creative content development. During this period, he also developed a deep appreciation for blues music, learning to play guitar and performing in a rhythm and blues band. One of his most memorable performances occurred on Maxwell Street, a historic hub of Chicago blues culture.

Although deeply engaged in secular pursuits, Rabbi Ranon Teller felt an undeniable pullback to Jewish life and spirituality. In 1996, he returned to Israel, this time with an open mind toward exploring different forms of Jewish practice beyond the Orthodox framework of his youth. He immersed himself in alternative Jewish spiritual expressions, particularly the contemporary Chasidic music movement and the teachings of Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi. He also audited courses at a Conservative rabbinical school in Jerusalem, engaging in a rigorous experiential Jewish education program that deepened his understanding of Jewish thought and practice. During this transformative year, he recognized his true calling—Jewish leadership.

Committed to becoming a leader in Jewish education and spiritual guidance, Ranon returned to the United States in 1998 and enrolled at the University of Judaism, now the American Jewish University, in Los Angeles. He pursued a degree in Jewish education alongside rabbinic ordination, combining academic scholarship with practical training. His dedication to Jewish learning earned him numerous accolades, including the Fingerhut School of Education Award for Outstanding Achievement. In 2002, he was ordained as a rabbi, receiving the Chancellor's Award for Academic Excellence and the Ziegler School Award for Excellence in Talmudic Studies. In 2022, he was honored with an Honorary Doctorate from the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, recognizing his lifelong contributions to Jewish leadership.

Beginning his rabbinic career in St. Louis, Teller served as the associate rabbi of Congregation B'nai Amoona from 2002 to 2005. During a leadership transition within the congregation, he played a crucial role in providing vision and stability. His innovative Jewish worship and engagement approach revitalized the synagogue, particularly among young families. He introduced contemporary, interactive prayer services, emphasizing accessibility and participation, and developed programming strengthening the synagogue's sense of community. His leadership helped to establish new traditions that continue to influence the congregation today.

In 2005, Ranon Teller became the senior rabbi of Congregation Brith Shalom in Houston, ushering in a new era of growth and transformation. His approachable and soulful leadership style resonated with congregants, fostering an inclusive environment where people from all backgrounds felt welcome. He introduced innovative musical prayer services that attracted diverse attendees, enhancing the worship experience with spiritual energy and contemporary relevance. Over the years, he has led numerous synagogue initiatives that have strengthened the congregation's religious identity and role in the broader Jewish community. Under his leadership, the congregation has flourished, expanding its programs, deepening community involvement, and increasing participation in Jewish life.

Beyond the synagogue, Ranon is deeply committed to community service and social justice. He has collaborated with organizations such as the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, the Houston Food Bank, and SEARCH Homeless Services, working tirelessly to support those in need. His involvement with the Food and Faith Collaborative has strengthened interfaith relationships, fostering unity and shared purpose among diverse religious communities. His work demonstrates that Jewish values extend beyond synagogue walls, emphasizing the importance of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, through acts of kindness and justice.

A visionary leader, Teller has played an instrumental role in securing the financial and structural future of Congregation Brith Shalom. He was key in securing a $1.5 million endowment, ensuring long-term stability for the congregation's programs and services. His leadership also helped secure a $5 million donation toward an ambitious building renovation campaign, modernizing synagogue facilities and enhancing spaces for worship, education, and community gatherings. His ability to inspire generosity and investment in the congregation's future reflects his dedication to sustaining and growing Jewish life in Houston.

At the heart of Ranon Teller Rabbi's life is his family. He is married to a supportive and loving partner, and together, they have raised four children, all of whom have been deeply connected to Jewish life. One of his daughters has expressed interest in following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather by pursuing a rabbinical career. The family also cherishes their time with their beloved dog, who has become joyful in their home. His strong commitment to family values is reflected in his teachings and leadership, reinforcing the importance of tradition, love, and connection.

Teller has a wide range of creative and intellectual interests outside his rabbinic responsibilities. He remains passionate about music, regularly playing blues and folk guitar while leading song-filled community gatherings. He is an avid reader, particularly drawn to non-fiction works and biographies that explore human nature and leadership. His love for the outdoors has led him to embrace hiking and backpacking as spiritual practices, finding profound personal renewal in nature. Additionally, he is a skilled juggler and magician, using these talents to engage and entertain his community. His passion for writing has also led to contributions to Kolot magazine, the Jewish Herald-Voice, and the Jewish Journal, as well as co-authoring the book Peaceful Bones.

Ranon Teller has built a legacy of innovation, inclusivity, and spiritual depth through his work. His ability to blend tradition with contemporary relevance has reshaped Jewish worship and education, making Jewish life more accessible and meaningful to modern communities. His leadership has profoundly impacted Congregation Brith Shalom and the wider Jewish world, ensuring that future generations will continue to benefit from his teachings, creativity, and unwavering dedication to Jewish values.