Prayer

Dear Rabbi, I'm preparing a lesson for my synagogue on the concept of praying and Torah study being a merit for the well-being of someone sick. When did this practice begin and how exactly does it work? Thanks!

Dear Rabbi, Why is it customary to remain seated while reciting the Shma Yisrael prayer in the morning and the evening? It would seem that during such an important and central prayer, we should show the utmost respect and attention by standing. Thank you.

Hi Rabbi, I’ve seen some people sway during prayer and others stand still while praying. Which is the correct way? Thanks!

Dear Rabbi, would you please tell me about the "Kaddish Prayer" and why do mourners say it? Thank you very much.

I realize that God controls everything. Therefore I pray to Him that He help me in whatever I do, even for the small, insignificant things. The problem is, He doesn’t seem to hear. Why isn’t God answering my prayers?

How many times should the Ana Bakoach prayer be recited?

I understand that we need a minyan for the following: Torah reading, Barchu, Kaddish, Kedusha (repetition of Amidah) Please explain why a minyan is required for these prayers.

Normally, we avoid petitionary prayers on Shabbat and Yom Tov. But how about if an individual or group of people are facing a crisis? Are petitionary prayers allowed on Shabbat or Yom Tov then? What I’m thinking of a lot is the coronavirus. So many people I know personally have it and their lives are on the line. And besides, everyone in the world is in danger. Is it permitted on Shabbat to pray to G-d for their recovery and a speedy end to this crisis, given that human lives are in danger?

Shalom aleichem Rabbi Lauffer. Thank you for answering my last question. It says in seforim that one says "Baruch hu u'varuch shemo” at the end of each bracha in Shemoneh Esrei. But I have heard some people say "Baruch Shemo" instead. Is either one correct halachically, or only the former? Thanks a lot.