Church Copyright Guide: How to Navigate Copyright Law in Church Practices


Frustrated by confusing or conflicting information about copyright law and your church? The Church Copyright Guide section of ChurchLawAndTax.com provides searchable access to the trusted resource relied upon by pastors, musicians, worship leaders, choir directors, administrators, and attorneys nationwide. This comprehensive guide offers clear, practical guidance on how copyright law applies to common church activities — from using hymn lyrics in bulletins, to streaming services, to creating chorus booklets and beyond.

Church Copyright Guide for Churches


This essential tool helps your church navigate copyright law with clarity. Whether you’re preparing bulletins, recording services, broadcasting worship, or selecting music, the Church Copyright Guide equips you with accurate, up-to-date information so you can make informed, responsible decisions. Avoid unintentional copyright infringement and protect your ministry from unnecessary legal risk with this valuable resource.

Table of Contents

  1. §Essential Guide to Copyright Law For Churches: Introduction
  2. §1Chapter 1: Copyright Basics
  3. §2Chapter 2: Copyright Registration and the Deposit Requirements
  4. §3Chapter 3: Copyright Duration
  5. §4Chapter 4: Transfers of Copyright and Publishing Contracts
  6. §5Chapter 5: Exclusive Rights, Infringements, Remedies
  7. §6Chapter 6: Defenses To Copyright Infringement
  8. §7Chapter 7: The Catholic Bishop and Wihtol Cases
  9. §8Chapter 8: Copyright in the Information Age
  10. §9Chapter 9: The Application of Copyright Law to the Church—A Glossary
  11. §Addendum (2024): Defining Intellectual Property

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