One of the benefits of practicing with a Sangha is to have support in times of crisis. Regardless of the crisis, having the support of community is invaluable. Practicing alone by choice may be convenient in times of ease and comfort, but invariably problems will arise and it is times such as those when having friends in faith can be invaluable. The Sangha, the third of the Three Jewels of Buddhism is so critical to a healthy faith.
Lecture on the Lotus Sutra