Oxford
For the past fifteen years Oxford has worked exclusively with religious organizations seeking independent and comprehensive background checks of clergy, prospective clergy, church workers, and volunteers. Many synods of the ELCA already use the unique screening models available through Oxford (see a list of references, and samples of the unique referencing models on Oxford’s Web site).
Oxford differs from the competition in several key areas:
- At Oxford, all public record searches are ordered by an experienced staff person based on information gathered both from the candidate and a social security trace. To rely solely on one or the other will most likely result in overlooking searches in key jurisdictions.
- At Oxford, all public record searches are performed real-time and in-person by their network of experienced court researchers. With the exception of the supplemental National Background Directory search, Oxford does not rely on potentially outdated or incomplete databases.
- Oxford’s fees are as stated, and no additional “access fees” are charged to you.
- Oxford strives for the highest level of personal attention and customer service. Screening is complex, and Oxford’s staff is there to guide you through the entire process.
- Oxford’s ministry is to serve your needs, rather than those of shareholders.
Oxford is a small private company headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota – about 30 minutes north of Minneapolis.
Some Specific Searches Available
Each ELCA entity may very well have unique screening needs based on the risk inherent in the position in question. As such, we encourage you to call Oxford at 1-800-801-9114 to develop a screening program to best suit your unique needs.
For those of you seeking to comply with the new candidacy requirements, the new ELCA Candidacy Manual outlines the basic recommended criteria for background checks. These criteria and Oxford’s fee for each (net of the 10% discount) are as follows:
- Social Security Trace — $7.20
- Criminal History Records check at the County level — $13.50 per county
- National Background Directory — $18.00
- Credit Report — $13.50
- Motor Vehicle Report — $13.50
For a complete description of these specific searches, and to learn more about Oxford’s other unique services capabilities, call them at 1-800-801-9114 or visit their Web site at www.oxforddoc.com/services.html.