As Christian adults, we have a moral and legal responsibility and are entrusted by God with the spiritual, emotional, and physical well being of children and adults. As they participate in activities within or sponsored by our Diocese, schools or parishes, it is our responsibility to provide an environment which is safe and nurturing.

Because of the serious nature of allegations of abuse and sexual misconduct by Church personnel, it is important that all personnel be informed about diocesan policy on performing background checks, how we are working to prevent abuse, and the procedures that are followed when reports of abuse or sexual misconduct by Church personnel are received.  

Screening Requirements:

• Priests
• Deacons
• Seminarians
• Scout Leaders if troop or pack is Chartered by parish or school
• All Employees
• Volunteers working with minors and vulnerable adults four times or more per year
• Overnight Function Volunteers
• Community service people are not allowed as volunteers

(Background checks cannot be conducted on minors under 18)

What Information Will Be Checked?

Background checks ordered by the Diocese will check criminal history as well as the Iowa Child Abuse Registry. A Credit Check is NOT part of the normal screening process, unless the employee/volunteer works with financial information.

Background Screening Forms:

Those applying for employment or volunteer status with a Diocesan entity should complete the Background Check packet. Upon completion, interested parties should submit the application to the Safe Environment Coordinator at the parish or school. They will then submit the document for screening.

A background check is completed on initial employment or volunteering and every 5 years.

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