Fingerprinting & Background Checks
The Diocese of Saint Petersburg is committed to fostering safe environments for children, youth, and vulnerable adults throughout our parishes, schools, ministries, and programs.
As part of this commitment, clergy, employees, and volunteers who work with children, youth, or vulnerable individuals are required to complete fingerprint-based background screening and Safe Environment training before serving in ministry.
This process helps promote accountability, trust, and the protection of all entrusted to the care of the Church. Failure to maintain compliance may result in suspension from ministry or volunteer activities.
Who Must Complete Screening
Criminal history record checks are required for those who volunteer or work in any capacity with or around children. The Office of Safe Environment oversees this process.
Clergy
All clergy and members of religious communities must complete a background check and fingerprinting. This includes all international and temporarily assigned parish priests (a letter of suitability is also required).
Employees
All employees 14 years of age and older must be Level 2 FDLE/FBI (AFRNP) Level 2 background screened using electronic fingerprinting through diocesan resources.
Contractors
All contractors (or their employees) who have or may have access to children or youth must successfully complete a FDLE/FBI (AFRNP) Level 2 background check based on electronic fingerprinting performed by the Diocese.
Volunteers
All volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults must be Level 2 FDLE/FBI (AFRNP) Level 2 background screened.
History of the Program
Applicant Fingerprinting Retention Notification Program (AFRNP)
In 2013, Bishop Emeritus Robert N. Lynch authorized the Diocese of Saint Petersburg to participate in the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Applicant Fingerprinting Retention Notification Program (AFRNP). This enhanced the Diocese’s existing screening process by providing ongoing notifications when an individual who has previously passed a Level 2 background check is later arrested or convicted of a disqualifying offense.
The AFRNP strengthens the Diocese’s commitment to protecting children, youth, and vulnerable adults by providing continuous monitoring beyond the initial background screening process.
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Background Screenings Completed Throughout the Diocese
Screening & Training Process
Fingerprinting
Register and complete electronic fingerprinting through the Diocese as part of the Level 2 FDLE/FBI screening process.
Background Check
A Level 2 FDLE/FBI criminal history background check helps ensure that those serving in ministry meet diocesan standards for working with children, youth, and vulnerable adults.
Safe Environment Training
Complete Safe Environment Program (SEP) training to help recognize, prevent, and respond appropriately to abuse and misconduct.
Code of Conduct Acknowledgement
Review and affirm the Diocese’s Code of Conduct, committing to safe, respectful, and professional interactions in ministry and service.
Renewal
Maintain compliance through required five-year renewals of Safe Environment training and background screening.
Quick Links
FAQ’s
How often is fingerprinting renewed?
Background screening and Safe Environment compliance must be maintained through periodic renewals (every five years) as required by diocesan policy. Clearance letters include the expiration date of the screening.
Who pays for fingerprinting?
The cost of fingerprinting varies by applicant type. Volunteers, employees, and contractors are generally responsible for paying the required fee at the time of registration. Current fees and payment instructions are provided during the online registration process.
What if I already completed screening elsewhere
The Diocese does not accept FDLE/FBI Level 2 background checks completed for another employer, agency, or organization. All screening must be completed through diocesan resources.
Do all volunteers require screening?
Yes. Level 2 FDLE/FBI fingerprint-based background screening is required for volunteers who work with children, youth, or vulnerable adults, or who may have unsupervised access to them. Contact your parish, school, or ministry leader if you are unsure whether your role requires screening.
How long does approval take?
Processing times vary depending on the results received from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Applicants should complete fingerprinting and training requirements as early as possible and should not begin ministry or service requiring clearance until approval has been received.
What training is required?
Individuals required to complete background screening must also complete the Diocese of Saint Petersburg Safe Environment Program (SEP) training and acknowledge the applicable Code of Conduct. The training provides information on recognizing, preventing, and responding to abuse and misconduct while promoting safe ministry environments.
What if I move to another parish or school in the Diocese?
If your background screening and Safe Environment certification are current and have not expired, your clearance generally remains valid throughout the Diocese of Saint Petersburg. Your new parish, school, or ministry may request verification of your compliance status, but a new fingerprint-based background screening is typically not required unless your certification has expired or your role changes significantly.