Every three years, we enter a year-long credentialing renewal process for all credentialed leaders. As our conference becomes more diverse, geographically, culturally, and in legal status, we need to continue to consider the elements of legality, safety, and culturally appropriate practices within this process and expect that we will continue to be respectful and relational.
For 2024, we present these general guidelines for the credentialing renewal process:
For persons in PA who can legally obtain their clearances – we expect that they will complete a State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI clearance, as well as complete the Mandated Reporter Training (available in English and Spanish).
For persons in PA who are undocumented – we will request a One Source background check using only their name and address as well as to complete the Mandated Reporter Training.
For persons in other states – NJ, Florida, California, Vermont, Maryland, New York – If you are able to complete your state’s background checks as listed here on the website, please do so. If you are unable to do so, we will complete a One Source background check. Please complete a Mandated Reporter training if it is available and required in your state and provide a certificate of completion.
For persons unable to take a Mandated Reporter training in their state – a summary training will be provided throughout the year in different languages.
For persons who are unable to complete the above requirements – we request that they sign an alternative document affirming that they have not committed any of the listed offences. We also request they send out a letter of affirmation from one of their congregational leaders.
For credentialed leaders serving in another country – you should complete the background checks and mandatory reporter training if you are able. The minimum requirement would be to fill out the affirmation statement and attend a mandated reporter summary training.
Leadership ministers will help guide and give counsel in the credentialing renewal process. Associate Executive Minister may request a letter of explanation and exception in special cases.
*Credentialed leaders will pay for the cost of the background checks.
Resources
Mandated Reporter Training
Each state has their own laws regarding who is legally mandated to report suspected child abuse and neglect. Mosaic Conference holds that all credentialed leaders are ethically and biblically responsible to care for the most vulnerable and therefore even if not required by law should report any suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. All credentialed leaders in Mosaic Conference are therefore required to be trained in mandated reporting for the state in which they live/work. See below for info on obtaining this training.
ALL CREDENTIALED LEADERS SHOULD PURSUE ONLINE TRAINING IN THEIR STATE OF RESIDENCE.