The dead person benefits if his/her son or sons lead public prayer services, whether during shloshim or the entire year (11 or 12 months). However, if the mourner is uncomfortable leading the minyan or is not a good reader or will be embarrassed, he should not feel obligated to do so.

A mourner does not lead a minyan on:

• Shabbat;

• Jewish Festivals (including chol ha'moed);

• Purim;

• Rosh Chodesh.

Opinions differ concerning Chanuka, so follow your local custom.