Q. Our shul is starting a 'Kiruv" outreach program for neighbors who may want to join and become Frum. They are planing to hire a well remunerated professional 'Mekarev' to do the work. They ended with the two best candidates, that as far as the qualities, knowledge and experience are similar. They would like to know if they should give preference to the one who is actually a Baal Teshuva himself or maybe that may be on the contrary detrimental?
A. One may argue that if one needs a 'Mekarev,' to attract and bring close to Torah and mitzvos, someone who has not been keeping anything yet, that Mekarev must be able to identify and comprehend the depth of mind, feelings and experiences of the one seeking a new spiritual life. Since he actually already experienced in person the trials, ordeals and emotions his potential Kiruv candidate is going through, his chances of success are higher.
Moreover, they may be able to share mutual principles and emotions that motivated both to seek a new life.
The Kiruv candidate may not identify at all with someone who is FFB.
Horav Shlomo Miller's Shlit'a opinion is that although in other positions such as a Chazan, being a Baal Teshuva may not be recommended, in this particular case he may be indeed the preferred candidate.
Rabbi A Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller, Horav Dovid Pam and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit'a
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