MONTANA SYNOD ELCA
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Background Checks

In order to ensure the safety and security of all involved, our Synod requires that our Lay Pastoral Associates undergo a background screening, as is required of most individuals working in a position of public trust. 

The Synod will cover the first $25.00 of the background check, with the remaining portion paid by either the candidate, or the candidate’s congregation (to be determined when the candidate obtains the council’s letter of recommendation to begin the LPA training program).

The average background check will cost between $50.00 - $70.00 (approx.), but it does vary.  The final bill (minus the first $25) will be sent to the candidate and/or the congregation upon receipt by the Synod office.  Ultimately, it is up to the LPA candidate to make sure the balance due is paid.

The fee for this screening is NOT included in the LPA training fee and is paid separately from the $650 program charge.  Please make sure that your church council and pastor are aware of this.

To get instructions for initiating your background check, contact [email protected]


1221 24th Street South - Great Falls, MT 59405-5034  [Phone] 406.453.1461 
© 2025 Montana Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
  • Home
  • Faith Formation
    • Faith Formation
    • Coaching in the Montana Synod >
      • Coaching FAQ
      • Coaching Testamonials
      • Coaching Contact
    • Lay Ministry Associates >
      • Current LPA Candidates & Students
    • NRIT >
      • Jessica Crist Scholarship Fund
  • Montana Synod Information
    • Montana Synod Information >
      • Constitution
    • About
    • Staff
    • Stewardship and Mission Support
    • Changing Climate Taskforce
    • Directories
    • Racial Justice Taskforce
    • Synod Council
    • Gift Policy
    • Clusters
    • Staff Blogs >
      • Laurie Jungling - From the Bishop Blog
    • Ecuminical & Interfaith Partners
    • Partner Ministries >
      • WELCA News
    • ELCA >
      • ELCA Statements
  • For Rostered Leaders
    • Leaders >
      • Leaders
    • Faithful Living
  • Congregations
    • Congregations
    • Future Church
    • Transitions
    • Holy Closure
    • For Congregations
    • Disaster Response Resources
  • News & Events
    • 50-40-10 Women's Ordination Anniversaries
    • Events Calendar
    • Archive >
      • From the Bishop Blog - Jessica Crist
      • Synod Assembly Archive
      • Quincentenary
      • South Africa 2015
      • Bolivia Recap Blog
    • Sexual Misconduct Policies
    • News & Events >
      • 2023 News Archive
      • 2024 News Archive
      • 2025 News Archive
    • Multimedia
  • Contact Us