1) If one is in the midst of Pesukei D’Zimrah (even in the midst of the Bracha of Baruch Sh’Amar or Yishtabach), and happens upon the congregation reciting kerias Shema, he/she may only say the first Posuk of Shema along with them (Psak of the Mishna Berura) and "Baruch Shem" (addition of Rav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita in Shoneh Halachos. Presumably, the reason is that "Baruch Shem" for all practical purposes has been instituted as part and parcel of the recital of the first Posuk of Shema, thus must be said each and every time Shema is said.)
2) If one is already past "Borchu" (part of davening known as Birchos Krias Shema) , even Bein Haperokim- between paragraphs, and hears the congregation is reciting Shema, it is forbidden to interrupt his/her davening to recite Krias Shema with the congregation.
However, in order not to have anyone think you are shunning your acceptance of Hashem’s reign, you should continue saying the part of davening that you are saying, while pretending that you are saying Krias Shema (e.g. place your hand on your eyes, say it with the tune that the congregation uses for Krias Shema etc.)
Reader's Question:
I have a physical disability. I normally daven either at home or at my office, do I fulfill the Mitzvah?
My Answer:
First of all, may Hashem grant you the strength to persevere and the fortitude to overcome your challenges. Mashiach is on the way, and with his arrival, all disabilities will be cured iy"H!
Yes, of course you fulfill the Mitzvah of Tefilah, as in your particular situation it is too difficult or impossible to alwas make it to Shul. The best thing for you to do is to try and daven Shemona Esrei at the same time as your shul does, so you will also have "Tefilah B'Tzibbur" in that manner.
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות - one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Important Numbers
