Washing in large gatherings and then waiting for the group

Hi,

First, a reminder that you can find Yom Kippur-related halachot by clicking here.

When a group gathers for a meal, it is good to have everyone participate in a single berachah, answering Amen to the leader's HaMotzi; this causes greater honor for Gd. However, if the group is large enough that there will be a significant pause between washing and eating, then one should not wait for the group.

Definining the "significant pause" is difficult, but note that the general advice of the Rama is to avoid a gap of time long enough to walk 22 amot - about 40 feet.

(Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 165:2, 166:1; Mishneh Berurah 165:5)

גמר חתימה טובה, May we be sealed for a great year,
Mordechai