Copyright | Communication Department

CCLI (Church Copyright License)

The purpose of this license is to give you the legal right to copy songs that are copyrighted. It also allows for lyrics to be displayed on the front screens during song service, etc. Your CCLI license # should be included already on the song sheets that are photocopied, but should also be added to either the beginning or ending of each song that is displayed from the screen. 

CCLI (Streaming License)

The purpose of this license is to give you the legal right stream your worship service that includes copyrighted music. If you do not livestream or otherwise upload your worship service you do not need this license. Additionally, if you upload or livestream your worship service but do not include any copyrighted music, you do not need this license. Your CCLI streaming license # should be included in your post or page where the livestream or upload is located.

CVLI (Video License)

The purpose of this license is to give you the legal right to show videos or extended clips of videos during your worship service. If you are only utilizing short clips for the purpose of critique or comment, this is allowed under the provision of “fair use,” however, this can be challenged by the copyright holder and may cause more problems than it is worth. 

As a member church of Upper Columbia Conference, you have liability coverage, assuming that you are following applicable laws. 

This is a complicated question. While it is located on private property, there is very little expectation of privacy. It would be appropriate to post a sign or include a written notice in your bulletin or perhaps on your front screen prior to church starting. 

Here is a sample message: We’re glad you're here! To connect with our community near and far, today's service is being broadcast live. Your presence in the sanctuary may be included in the video feed.

The concerns traditionally revolve around two areas: minors and victims of domestic abuse. While there are no requirements around this from a conference perspective, I would encourage you to consider the following steps:

      • Avoid panning the camera into the audience. Keep cameras focused on main stage or side stage (for piano or organ). Alternatively, you could designate a section that is for “non-filming” with signage to that effect.

      • During children’s story, either have children sit on the front pews (faces away from the camera) or broadcast a static photo while broadcasting audio only. The photo could relate that your video broadcast will resume following children’s story. 

Specific permission is not needed, as there is a low expectation of privacy. However, it is encouraged to be sensitive to parent’s wishes. We are all part of the body of Christ and should share others concerns. Additional protections during children’s story, in particular, is encouraged. Photography and video during a Sabbath School is outside of the norm and additional parental input is necessary. Additional permissions are necessary for Pathfinders, Adventurers, and other events that directly involve minors.

Yes, Upper Columbia Conference carries liability protection for churches, provided that churches are following applicable laws.