Legal Issues Involving Ownership of Pastors’ Sermons, Books, etc.

The advancement and growing prevalence of digital technology continues to present churches and ministries with exciting opportunities as well as substantial new challenges. In order to successfully and securely utilize such technology, it is becoming increasingly important for organizations to familiarize themselves with pertinent intellectual property (“IP”) law issues.

A common issue that a church may be faced with is the question of ownership of intellectual property that was created by the church’s pastor. Pastors are now able to record, edit and distribute their songs, books, podcasts, and sermons through various digital media platforms to anyone with an internet connection. However, complications often arise when ascertaining which party holds the copyright to such creations, who can profit from them, who is allowed to control the distribution of the IP, and other related questions.

The answers to most of these questions can be found through an analysis of relevant Federal statutes, case law, and guidance by the United States Copyright Office.

Disclaimer: This document should not be considered legal advice. You should not rely upon the information in this document in lieu of and without consulting and obtaining legal advice from your legal advisors in your state and jurisdiction.