Copyright Resources
Helping Churches Use Creative Works Faithfully, Legally, and Ethically
Churches regularly use music, scripture, images, videos, and other creative materials in worship, education, and online ministry. Copyright law exists to protect the creators of those works - and churches are generally required to follow those laws, just like any other organization.
This page is dedicated to help clergy and lay leaders understand:
- What churches can and cannot do under copyright law
- When licenses are required
- How to livestream and share worship responsibly
- Where to find trustworthy guidance and support
Our goal is not simply legal compliance, but faithful stewardship - honoring artists, writers, and creators while supporting vibrant ministry.
!! Important Licensing Clarification !!
Having a license does not mean you are covered for every use.
Music, video, and media licenses are activity-specific. This means a church may be permitted to do one thing - such as print or project lyrics - but not another - such as livestream or post recordings online.
For example, a church may:
- Be licensed to print or project music, but not livestream it
- Be allowed to perform music in worship, but not record or share it online
- Have permission for in-person use, but not digital or streaming use
Many churches need more than one license, or multiple components of the same license, to fully cover their worship and online ministry practices.
When in doubt, always confirm that your license specifically covers the activity you are planning.
Understanding Copyright in the Church
U.S. copyright law grants creators exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, and record their work. If a church wishes to do any of these things with copyright material - such as printing lyrics, projecting music, livestreaming worship, or showing a film - permission is usually required.
Churches are not automatically exempt from copyright law. While there is a narrow exemption for live performance during a worship service, that exemption:
- Does not allow copying, printing, projecting, recording, or livestreaming
- Does not apply to audio/visual materials
- Does not extend beyond the worship service itself
Because of this, most churches need licenses to support common worship and online ministry practices.
Why Licensing Matters
Licensing is about more than avoiding legal risk. It ensures that:
- Songwriters, composers, and publishers are compensated for their work
- Creative ministries can continue to thrive
- Churches model ethical and just use of intellectual property
Licenses function much like paying for music through services such as Spotify or iTunes - they honor the labor behind the art.
Common Music Licenses Used by Churches
Most United Methodist congregations rely on one or more of the following license companies:
- One Licenses
- Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI)
- Christian Video Licensing International (CVLI)
Each church must purchase its own licenses as needed. The conference cannot hold blanket licenses on behalf of all congregations.
Note: The Conference does carry licenses for conference-sponsored events. If you are hosting such an event, please contact the Conference Communications Office for guidance.
Online Worship, Privacy, and Best Practices
In addition to copyright, churches should be mindful of privacy and digital safety, especially in online worship.
Best practices include:
- Do not post photos or videos of identifiable individuals without permission
- Obtain annual media releases from members whenever possible
- Avoid posting identifiable images of children on websites or social media
- Remind worship participants not to share primate or sensitive information publicly in livestream chats
Helpful Articles & Learning Resources
- Virtual Ministry Guidebook (PDF)
- The CCLI License: What is Legal and What is Not?
- Cracking the Code of Copyrights and Music Licensing for Your Church Service
- What is CCLI and Why Should It Matter to my Church?
- Music Copyright Law - Is Your Church Compliant?
- CF&A - Church Copyright Licensing Options
- CF&A - 9 Common Church Copyright Myths
- Your Guide to Playing Church Music and Copyright Infringement
- Do Music Right: Three Myths about Copyright Law
A Pastoral Note
Copyright law can feel complicated - and at times overwhelming. You are not alone in navigating it. Licensing organizations and denominational partners are generally helpful and eager to assist churches in doing things well.
This page is intended as a practical guide, not legal advice. If you have specific concerns or questions, we encourage you to consult your licensing provider or seek legal counsel.
Caring for creative work is part of caring for the people who make it - and part of our witness as the Church.