A few inner-Kehillah guidelines from Rabbi Yonatan Halevy
- Netz. When praying without a Minyan, it is ideal to pray at Netz. It is the opinion of Mori HaRav Yaakov Peretz shlit"a that even on a regular basis, it is preferable to pray at Netz without a Minyan, than it is to pray with a Minyan after Netz.
- Time of Tefillah. One should always try to pray when the community is praying, even without a Minyan. For example, on Shabbat morning, if not praying with Netz, pray at the same time the Kehillah usually prays.
- Torah Reading. The vast majority of the Poskim are of the opinion that the reading of the Torah is not an obligation on the individual, but rather on the community. Therefore, when praying alone, there is no need to read the Torah. Nonetheless, it is proper to read the Torah portion on your own (in Hebrew or English), perhaps choosing a commentary of your choice. You may do the same for the Haftarah.
- Decorum. It is proper to create an atmosphere that is conducive to Tefillah even when praying alone. Dress as you would to the Bet Knesset, use your Siddur instead of a phone, etc.
- Sing your heart out! Unlike when praying with a Minyan, there is no pressure to keep up a certain pace. Instead of rushing - try the opposite! Sing and read out loud like you would in Bet Knesset, even adding your own favorite tunes and melodies!
- Praying as a family. Unlike at the Kehillah where we separate for prayer, this is an opportunity to pray and sing with your spouse, and create a unique Tefillah experience. When was the last time your child was able to sing to you the Tefillot they have learned in school and have you accompany them? The few Shabbatot in my life that I have had to stay home from Bet Knesset, were blessed with the opportunity to pray alongside the Rabbanit and pour out our hearts to HaKadosh Baruch Hu together. Seize the opportunity!
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