Friday, April 11, 2008

An Acceptable Man

Musical Note By Cantor Sherwood Goffin
Shliach Tsibbur Democracy

Did you know that the “democratic process” rules in the selection of a Shliach Tsibbur?

The one who is chosen to lead the service- anytime, at any minyan in the Shul - must be chosen with the approval of all (certainly most) of the members of that minyan. The Shulchan Aruch says clearly that the Chazzan (appointed or voluntary) must be “M’rutseh L’kohol” - he must be “desired by the congregation.”

No one is allowed to conduct any service without the approval of the congregation. This is the strength of the title “Shliach Tsibbur”- “messenger of the congregation.” He must represent his minyan to the degree that they all approve of his serving as their representative before the almighty.

Daven well and sing along!

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