Background Screening Policy (CORI)

The CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) law effects every Massachusetts criminal justice agency and virtually every person who comes into contact with the criminal justice system. Since its 1972 passage, this law has been the subject of considerable debate and criticism. Enacted at a time when control over the accuracy and completeness of criminal records was virtually nonexistent, the CORI law (M.G.L. c.6, S167 through S178B) was aimed at upgrading the quality of criminal records in the commonwealth, ultimately in automated form. 

The Diocese of Worcester performs CORI checks as part of a general background check for employment, volunteer work, or licensing purposes. This includes all clergy, religious, and laypeople. Background checks must be renewed every 5 years (every year for teachers.) The Office of Healing and Prevention processes background screening directly with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for parish and diocesan personnel and volunteers. For more information on CORI law and the entire Diocese of Worcester's CORI policy, please review the following documents:

• Diocese of Worcester CORI Policy
• Information Concerning the Process in Correcting a Crimal Record
• New CORI Regulations
• Frequently Asked Questions About CORI  

 
A copy of the CORI form used within the Diocese of Worcester is available at this link.