Churches Using Background Checks to Protect Children

Posted: Oct 6, 2010 2:06 PM
Updated: Oct 6, 2010 2:15 PM

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - More churches and religious groups are doing regular background checks with hopes of preventing abuse of children.

Children's advocates say not all background checks are equal, and warn religious groups they must be especially vigilant because their trusting communities are often targets for abusers.

Insurance companies that write liability policies for churches say the checks should look into criminal databases at the local, state and federal levels.

They also encourage churches to educate their staffs for warningsigns and opportunities that abusers might seek to be alone with potential victims.

Topics: More, Churches, and, Religious, Groups, Using, Background, Checks