Rabbi Ranon Teller is a devoted and dynamic spiritual leader who combines his passion for Jewish music, education, and community with creative approaches to worship and congregational life. His television writing and music background has given him a unique ability to lead through innovative worship services and educational programming. As the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom in Houston, he has revolutionized prayer services, fostering strong membership engagement and forming deep connections within local and broader Jewish communities.

Raised in a suburban Detroit home, Rabbi Ranon grew up immersed in the practices and values of Orthodox Judaism as the second of three children. His early education occurred at Orthodox Day School, followed by Skokie Yeshiva High School outside Chicago. After completing high school, he moved to Israel, where he studied at an Orthodox yeshiva and dove into advanced Talmudic study, Jewish philosophy, theology, and sacred text. However, as he progressed in his studies, he began questioning the Orthodox practices he had grown up with, leading him to seek a deeper understanding of Judaism that would better align with his evolving spiritual identity.

1996, Rabbi Teller returned to Israel to explore alternative Jewish spirituality and practice. He became particularly drawn to contemporary Chasidic music and the teachings of Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, which helped him connect with Jewish traditions in new and meaningful ways. During this time, he audited classes at a Conservative rabbinical school in Jerusalem and participated in an intensive Jewish education program. These experiences led him to a profound realization that his calling was to pursue Jewish leadership, prompting him to return to the United States in 1998 to further his studies and become a rabbi.

Upon returning to the United States, Rabbi Ranon enrolled at the University of Judaism (now the American Jewish University) in Los Angeles, where he focused on Jewish education and rabbinic ordination. His dedication to his studies and growing love for Jewish learning were evident as he excelled in his coursework, culminating in an Honorary Doctorate from the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in 2022. Exceptional achievements, including the Fingerhut School of Education Award for Outstanding Achievement and the Ziegler School Award for Excellence in Talmudic Studies, marked his academic journey.

In 2002, Ranon Teller was ordained as a rabbi and began his rabbinic career as the associate rabbi at Congregation B'nai Amoona in St. Louis, where he served until 2005. During his time there, the congregation faced a period of senior leadership turnover, and he was called upon to provide vision and stability. He successfully engaged young families and introduced innovative, interactive prayer services, further solidifying his role as a dynamic and compassionate leader. This experience helped shape his approach to leadership, which would prove invaluable in the future.

In 2005, Rabbi Teller moved to Houston to become the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom. His soulful, personable, and diplomatic approach to leadership quickly led to congregational growth and revitalization. During his two decades at Brith Shalom, he introduced innovative musical prayer services that united congregants and community members, making services more engaging and spiritually enriching. He also played a key role in securing a $1.5 million endowment for the synagogue and a $5 million contribution toward a building renovation campaign, helping ensure the synagogue's long-term stability and success.

Rabbi Ranon's impact extends far beyond the walls of his synagogue. He is deeply involved in the Houston Jewish community, actively collaborating with and volunteering for organizations such as the Houston Food Bank, SEARCH Homeless Services, and the Food and Faith Collaborative. In addition, he works closely with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and Alexander Jewish Family Service to support those in need, further reflecting his commitment to tikkun olam, the Jewish principle of repairing the world.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Rabbi Ranon Teller enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests that further enrich his life. He continues to play blues and folk guitar and remains passionate about song-leading, bringing joy and spirituality through music. Reading non-fiction, particularly biographies and books on human nature, is another of his favorite activities. He also enjoys juggling, magic, and backpacking, often finding spiritual fulfillment in the natural world. He has written for Kolot magazine, the Jewish Herald-Voice, and the Jewish Journal. He co-authored the book, Peaceful Bones, sharing his insights and experiences with a broader audience.