Q. My backyard adjoins other neighbours who wish to make a minyan across backyard fences in the way described as permitted by the Rov. Do I (and the other adult male members of my household) have an obligation to join such a minyan? Without the 3 people from my house, there would be no minyan in adjoining properties. (I currently daven b’yachid in accordance with the directives from Hatzoloh locally, and Agudas Yisroel of America who have prohibited minyanim “without exception” – as per April 6 Joint Statement with RCA, OU, Lakewood Vaad.)
A. A defining attribute of the Covid crisis is its constant ability to change.
Horav Shlomo Miller's opinion today (4/14/20) is, that due to the changing situation, at this point in time, all minyonim should be avoided. This includes the one you describe, as well as the one addressed in questions 2610, 2624, and 2629. Although, they would comply with the strict letter of the law in our locations, the Rov maintains that the potential for Chillul Hashem, as well as the possible non-compliance of the attendants to all conditions, preempts all other considerations.
Therefore, all minyonim in every form and location, should be avoided at his time.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit'a
Important Numbers
