In 2024, church leaders largely recognize the importance of performing background checks to ensure the safety of their congregation. However, getting started with background screenings can be overwhelming with all of the resources to choose from.

But don't worry, we're here to help un-muddy the waters!

We'll cover the ins and outs of screening your church staff and volunteers and the best resources for church background checks.

Why Should Churches Do Background Checks?

Screening your volunteers helps protect those who serve and those being served. Think about how much your church relies on the help of volunteers for roles like your welcome team, Sunday school teachers, and so much more! Since volunteers do so much for your ministry, it's important to make sure they're the right fit to help you fulfill your mission. So why should your church do background checks?

• Safety first: Background checks help prevent potential threats to the body 
• Builds trust: Background checks build trust within the community 
• Legal compliance: Background checks aid in complying with federal and state laws/ insurance requirements

Legal Requirements

When it comes to legal requirements for background checks, it's important to note that these regulations can vary from state to state. For example, some states have specific requirements for those who may be working specifically with children. Beyond state requirements, some denominations may have their own standards for background checks. It's crucial that church leaders know about all state and denomination laws to ensure that they are in full compliance.

Understanding and adhering to these laws not only helps protect children but also protects the church from potential legal liabilities. Non-compliance can lead to consequences such as fines, lawsuits, and ultimately, damage to the church's reputation in their community.

For more information on related laws and legal requirements, check out the resources below:

• Background Check Laws by State
• National Child Protection Act
• Child Welfare Information Gateway

What Are Good Background Check Options?

We've put together a list of some of the best background check resources to help you get started:

Affordable, Simple Background Checks

Sterling Volunteers: Known for being cost-effective, especially for volunteer-based organizations. They offer a range of background check packages, making it affordable for churches on a budget.

Website: https://www.sterlingvolunteers.com/

Protect My Ministry: Provides thorough screening services, including criminal background checks and sex offender checks. They offer reasonably priced packages, specifically designed for faith-based organizations.

Website: https://www.protectmyministry.com/

More Detailed Background Checks

Safe Hiring Solutions: Offer a broad range of screening services, including criminal records, and reference checks.

Website: https://www.safehiringsolutions.com/

Ministry Safe: Focuses on child protection and abuse prevention, providing extensive training along with background check services. This approach can be more costly, but more effective for churches with higher safety concerns.

Website: https://ministrysafe.com/

Streamline Background Checks with ChurchTrac

We understand the process of managing these checks, keeping track of compliance, and staying updated with the latest legal requirements can be overwhelming for church leaders. Our integration with Ministry Safe streamlines the entire background check process from managing, tracking, and ensuring all the legal requirements and documentation needs are met (all from a one-stop shop!).

What Matters Most in a Background Check?

All of the options mentioned above share some variation of the key components needed in a good background check...

Criminal History

A thorough criminal history check is essential for identifying any past criminal behavior, especially those related to violent crimes, sexual offenses, and abuse. This ensures those with a criminal history are not placed in a position to harm others.

Sex Offender Registry

Verifying whether or not the individual is listed on the national and state sex offender registries is crucial. This helps protect vulnerable members, such as the elderly or children, from potential harm.

Identity Verification

Ensuring a person's identity is accurate through social security number verification helps prevent identity fraud and ensures the background check is being conducted on the right individual.

Reference Checks

Contacting previous employers or volunteer coordinators can provide insights into the individual's character and suitability for working in a church setting.

Driving Records

If an individual will be transporting members or youth then checking their driving record will also be important. This ensures they have a safe driving history and are qualified to transport others.

What Is a Red Flag on a Background Check?

When conducting a background check, several red flags may indicate potential issues. If the individual has any history of violent crimes, sexual offenses, or abuse (especially involving children), this is a significant red flag. Individuals listed on the national or state sex offender registries should not be allowed to work with vulnerable populations of the church (children and elderly).

Any discrepancies with false identities can indicate attempts to hide past criminal behavior. Poor references from past employers such as unethical behavior or misconduct or any records of serious driving regulations will need to be addressed.

What if a check reveals a red flag?

It's important to approach these situations carefully and with great consideration. Here are some things to consider:

1. The amount of time passed since the event
2. The nature and severity of the event
3. The relevancy of the events to the volunteer duties
4. The overall character of the volunteer
5. Any rehabilitation efforts made 

If the situation warrants further action, here are some of our recommendations:

Maintain confidentially throughout the process. Only share information with those who need to know, the key decision-makers in the church. Then, have a private conversation with the individual. Allow them the chance to explain the red flag. If the red flag involves serious legal issues, consult with legal counsel to further understand laws and regulations, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Based on the information gathered, decide whether to proceed with an individual's involvement in the church. Then inform the individual of your decision respectfully and professionally. Unfortunately, this is one of the more not-so-fun tasks of church leadership, but one that you should always be fully prepared for.

FAQS

Who should undergo a background check in the church? All staff members, volunteers, and anyone who works with vulnerable populations (such as children, youth, and the elderly) should undergo a background check. This includes pastors, Sunday school teachers, youth leaders, and drivers.

How often should background checks be conducted? Background checks should be conducted upon initial hiring or volunteer onboarding and then regularly updated, typically every 1-3 years. The frequency can depend on the level of risk associated with the position.

Are background checks legally required for churches? While not always legally required, background checks are strongly recommended as a best practice for safeguarding the congregation. However, some states and localities may have specific legal requirements for background checks, especially for those working with children.

Can we conduct background checks ourselves, or should we use a service? It’s advisable to use a reputable background check service that specializes in working with churches and nonprofit organizations. These services have the expertise and resources to conduct thorough and compliant checks.

How much do background checks cost? The cost of background checks can vary depending on the depth of the check and the service provider. Budgeting for these checks is important, as they are a crucial investment in the church’s safety.

Keep Your Staff and Volunteers Safe

In Matthew 10:16 Jesus told his disciples, "...be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves." It's important to be aware and prepared for the dangers that actively face the church.

Background checks are not merely a one-time task, but an ongoing responsibility that helps protect the flock from those with not the best intentions. Make this decision wisely, and of course, we're always here to help!

Matt Church Engagement