Leaving a shul

Hi,

One should not leave a shul because its members do not act properly; "a little light can dispel much darkness," and his education of others may be effective. However, this does not apply if the shul itself begins to function in a non-halachic manner.

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 1:99)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Flags in a synagogue

Hi,

Rav Moshe Feinstein wrote that flags do not belong in a synagogue sanctuary, as they have no inherent holiness. However, he also wrote that their presence in a sanctuary does not detract from the holiness of the space, and should not be used as grounds for forming a separate minyan.

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 1:46)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Breakaway Synagogues

Hi,

Yesterday we began discussing the imperative for a community to construct a synagogue.

The Mishneh Berurah, citing Radvaz, says that this should, ideally, be a single synagogue for a geographic community. If there is strife, then the community should work to end the strife. Only if the strife is irresolvable, and fights are continually springing up, should they proceed to build a new synagogue.

(Mishneh Berurah 150:2)

Have a great day,
Mordechai