Understanding Copyright & Proper Use of Content

Why This Matters

Every piece of music, image, article, or resource someone creates is automatically protected by copyright. That means the creator controls how it is used, copied, and shared.

As a church and organization, we want to operate with integrity, honoring both the law and the people who create the resources we benefit from.

Simple Rule to Remember

If we didn’t create it or purchase the rights to use it, we should pause before using it.

Giving credit is respectful—but it does not replace permission.

Where This Comes Up Most Often


Music

Music is one of the most common areas where mistakes happen.

  • Singing songs during a service is generally allowed
  • Copying lyrics, printing songs, or sharing chord charts is different
  • Recording or livestreaming services that include music often requires licensing 

Even copying just lyrics (not the music) can still be considered infringement because lyrics are protected content

Printed Materials

It can feel harmless to make copies for a class or ministry group, but:

  • Books, devotionals, and study guides are protected
  • Worksheets and curriculum cannot be copied freely
  • Articles, poems, or graphics usually require permission 

Even partial copying can cross the line if it represents a meaningful portion of the work

Photos & Images

This is one of the biggest misconceptions today.

  • Images on Google are not free to use
  • Photos on Facebook belong to the person who posted them
  • Downloading and printing or reposting images without permission is not allowed 

If we didn’t take the photo or obtain rights to it, we should not use it.

Social Media & Online Content

It’s easy to assume that if something is online, it’s public—but that’s not the case.

  • Copying and reposting graphics or articles can be infringement
  • Downloading content and redistributing it is restricted
  • Websites and social platforms are still protected spaces 

Churches and organizations can be held responsible for what is shared online

Courses, Academies, and Paid Resources

Access does not equal ownership.

  • Materials from training programs or academies are owned by the creator
  • Printing or redistributing them is not automatically allowed
  • These resources are typically licensed for personal or organizational use—not duplication 

What Is Generally Safe to Use

  • Content we create ourselves
  • Materials we have purchased with usage rights
  • Public domain content (older works with expired copyright)
  • Content where we have clear, written permission 

A Quick Note on “Fair Use”

You may hear the term “fair use,” but it is very limited and often misunderstood.

It usually does not apply when:

  • Large portions are copied
  • The content replaces something that should be purchased
  • The use impacts the creator’s ability to sell their work 

Because of this, it’s best not to rely on fair use as a default.

Practical Mindset

When in doubt, ask:

  • Do we own this?
  • Do we have permission?
  • Would I be comfortable if someone used my work this way

Final Thought

This isn’t about restriction—it’s about stewardship.

We honor others by respecting their work, and we protect our organization by making wise, informed decisions in how we use content.