Meet the Rabbis
Rabbi Rene Bloch
Rene and his beloved wife Miriam have three children: Rene Jr., Robert, and Rosanne. Rene's spiritual journey underwent a paradigm shift in 1973 when he was drawn by the Ruach HaKodesh (The Holy Spirit). He was led to a Messianic Jewish Congregation in Encino, California under the leadership of Dr. Hillel Goldberg. Today the congregation is called Ahavat Zion Synagogue.
While living in Bakersfield, California in 1981, Rene was called to make aliyah to Eretz Yisrael. Though he felt the Ruach leading him back to Israel, under divine guidance, Rene and his family moved to Rockville, Maryland. The words of Isaiah 55 rung true, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways." Rene did not understand the implications of this at first. But, as time progressed, he saw the Lord's hand as the Bloch family made Beth Messiah Congregation their home. Shortly after, the iconic Messianic music band, "Israel's Hope," was formed.
Rene traveled all over the world with band members Paul Wilbur and Marc Chopinsky. They witnessed great signs, wonders, and healings as they ministered with their Spirit-filled music and teachings from the Scriptures. These times at Beth Messiah were a season of many of the great teachers within the Messianic Jewish movement - such as Dr. Dan Juster, Eitan Shishkoff, Asher Intrater, and Dr. Michael Brown - forming lasting covenantal relationships.
In 1991, Rene returned to California where he was elected as the Senior Rabbi of Beth Shalom. He continues to lead the congregation along with his son, Robert. They make a powerful father and son team. Also see our story (From Colton to Corona).
Rabbi Robert Bloch
Rabbi Robert's journey parallels his father's calling as a leader. He has followed his father's example and become a second generational leader - a Rabbi within the Messianic Jewish movement. Robert has also achieved significant distinction in education. He holds a Master's Degree in Jewish Studies from the Messianic Jewish Theological Institute. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Administration from California State University San Bernardino.
Robert served as the Secretary of the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations from 2010 to 2012.
He is privileged to serve alongside his father Rene. He has been married to his beautiful bride, Yesenia, for twenty-five years. They are blessed with three amazing children: Bethany, Ezra and Asher. Robert’s interests include romancing his bride, spending quality time with his children, mentoring young leaders, and serving his community.