Q&A: On Being Counted for a Minyan and Serving as Prayer Leader
On Being Counted for a Minyan and Serving as Prayer Leader
Question
Hello Rabbi.
As is well known, there are many who think that someone who holds views like the Rabbi’s is a heretic (of course I have no problem with that). I agree with the Rabbi and think like him on most things.
A. Is there any halakhic criterion connected to being counted for a minyan or going up to serve as prayer leader that I would fail to meet? (According to them—the rest of the world).
B. Do I have a moral obligation to say this if people naturally assume that I am part of the minyan and even ask me to lead the prayers as cantor?
Thank you.
Answer
I’m not sure you’re right about me. In any case, I think that anyone who knows to whom one prays can be counted. It’s possible that there are people who think otherwise, but I don’t think you are obligated to cater to every meshugas of every person. If in your view you are praying and can be counted, then join.