Press Releases19 Mar 20

Covid–19: Guidance for Online Services

The following advice is being issued by the Church of Ireland Press Office to assist parishes and dioceses which are considering online worship opportunities at this time.

Parishes and dioceses are strongly advised to:

1. Consider whether your parish has the resources at present to provide recorded or livestreamed worship – parishes which do not wish to take on broadcasting are free to encourage and help parishioners to watch or listen to services provided by others;

2. Consider carefully whether recording for uploading at a later time or livestreaming is the best approach – recording gives an opportunity for speakers (with advice from others where appropriate) to check and edit content before sharing this more widely;

3. Consider whether advertising will be displayed when your service is broadcast on a social media channel;

4. Ensure that your copyright licence covers broadcasting where the livestreaming, recording or performing of music and hymns is being considered – a performing rights licence may also be required.

5. Consult and follow the Church’s Social Media Guidelines and Safeguarding Trust & Adult Safeguarding policies.

Christian Copyright Licensing International provides information on the copyright status of hymns and songs.  Please check the following websites before recording or livestreaming: 

Social Media Guidelines: https://bit.ly/2Wtvljw

Safeguarding Trust & Adult Safeguarding: www.ireland.anglican.org/safeguarding

CCLI UK (for Northern Ireland): https://uk.ccli.com/faq

CCLI Ireland (for Republic of Ireland): https://ie.ccli.com/faq

Please consult your diocesan communications officer for specific local guidance from your diocesan bishop or commissary.

Church of Ireland Press Office
19th March 2020