May I play a CD in Worship?

Question

A question for me is the use of copyrighted sound recordings for worship. I guess the royalty issue is a minor one; but it could be considered an infringement, couldn't it?

Response:

I assure you that "the royalty issue" is never a minor one. It is always of major importance and central to almost any legal dispute over copyright infringement. The playing of sound recordings in worship (that's sound without any video — video is covered elsewhere in the law) is covered by the mechanical licensing provisions of the law. You can read more about that on our site.The short answer to your question is that you do not need to have permission or a license to play legally produced and legally purchased musical CDs in worship. You may not, however, record, tape, or broadcast them or make copies, even if intended for delivery to shut-ins. You may not use illegally duplicated copies (tapes, CDs) in your worship service.