Are Churches Required to do Background Checks?

Every church should establish comprehensive child safety guidelines and procedures for their workers and volunteers. Once adopted, these protocols should be readily available, published, and accompanied by annual training sessions. Failing to implement adequate safety measures not only exposes your church to legal risks and litigation but also attracts potential offenders and predators into your program. However, while it’s crucial to mitigate risks and liability, the primary focus when developing these procedures should always be the safety and protection of children from harm.

Incidents of abuse and allegations can happen in any church, at any time. Therefore, it’s essential to establish robust safety barriers for your workers. These child safety policies should be covered during the initial application process, with candidates required to sign for receipt and acknowledgment.

Churches should adopt the following child safety practices:

• All adults and youth who work with or have access to minors, whether employed or volunteer, must undergo screening and criminal background checks prior to serving.

• Adults with convictions of sexual or physical abuse against minors or a history of inappropriate conduct with children will not be allowed to serve or participate in any church-sponsored activity or program for minors.

• Employees and volunteers working with children and youth must adhere to the “two-person rule” or the “open door policy” at ALL times. The “two-person rule” requires avoiding situations where they are alone with minors, while the “open door policy” mandates keeping the door open when not in the presence of two workers.

• Volunteers in children and youth ministries should be church members with at least six months of active participation and attendance, demonstrating self-control and Christ-like characteristics.

• Provide comprehensive training for all volunteers and employees on reporting suspected incidents of abuse or any behavior deemed inappropriate.