Hymns are a treasure shared by churches in every language. Many of them were written more than a century ago and are now in the public domain: anyone may print or project their words. Others, and most modern worship songs, are still protected by copyright.
Public domain: free to project
A text enters the public domain when its copyright has expired, which in most countries happens a number of decades after the death of the author. Hymns such as “Amazing Grace” (John Newton), “Holy, Holy, Holy” (Reginald Heber) or “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (Martin Luther) are well-known examples. Be careful: a recent translation or arrangement of an old hymn can still be protected.
Protected songs: use a licence
- For copyrighted songs, churches usually hold a licence such as CCLI that covers projection.
- Report the songs you use, as your licence asks.
- Never upload protected lyrics to a public website without permission.
Hymn lyrics ready for the screen
The BibleSlide hymn library offers public-domain hymns, including the Chants d’Espérance tradition, already split into verses and choruses for projection. Each hymn shows its source and copyright status. You can add your own church songs privately and import them from other software.
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
King James Version
Tips for projecting hymns
- Show the verse number on each slide so people can follow in their hymn book.
- Put the chorus after each verse in the order of service, as it is sung.
- In a bilingual church, show the hymn in two languages only when both texts are public domain or licensed.
When in doubt about a song’s status, ask the publisher or use a public-domain hymn instead. Respecting the work of authors is part of our witness.
