Statement on AI Usage

Since its inception, Salvation Worship has sought to create a space that encourages, empowers, and develops the gifts of Salvationist songwriters across The Salvation Army world. Creativity and musical ability are God-given gifts that can have a profound impact on the worshipping life of our congregations.

God gives His people His presence. As songwriters who have experienced that presence, we have the privilege of contributing to the worship experiences of others through the songs we write. We believe there is no substitute for the human element in congregational songwriting. The Holy Spirit lives within us; we experience God’s grace, restoration, and faithfulness, and we respond in worship and praise for what He has done in our lives. These lived experiences – and many others – shape and inspire the songs we write.

For this reason, songs that use AI-generated lyrics, melodies, or harmonic composition will not be considered for publication in Salvation Worship.

Submissions

When submitting songs, we do not expect fully produced recordings or access to professional recording equipment. A clear recording of voice and piano or guitar – even captured as a simple voice memo on a phone – is more than sufficient. Our focus is the song itself. While some contributors may have access to studios or technology that enhance the production quality of a demo, this has no bearing on the selection process.

Plagiarism and Copyright Concerns

“Plagiarism is a real risk with AI content. Such programs are trained on countless existing publications, documents and websites, and using this content could expose you (and potentially, The Salvation Army) to a lawsuit.” – Appendix 2, Ethical Storytelling Reference Guide © The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory, November 2025

Inspiration and Creativity

Songwriters are inspired by many things. Nature, literature, images, conversations, and music can all stir the creativity God has given us. However, there is a distinction between being inspired by something and allowing AI to create on your behalf.

We believe God continues to inspire songwriters because He continues to work in and through the lives of His people. His grace is still amazing, and the same Creator who made the universe continues to inspire those who write songs for His people. We want songs to come from individuals who have personally experienced God’s presence, transformation, and inspiration.

Songwriting is both an inspired expression and a skill that is developed over time. Learning to self-edit, receiving feedback, persevering through creative challenges, and refining one’s craft are all important parts of becoming a stronger songwriter. Relying on AI to shortcut this process removes the human element that is essential to congregational songwriting. We should strive to offer God our personal best, rather than depending on external systems to do the creative work for us.

Our relationship with God is expressed through writing and shared with others in congregational worship. When personal experience is removed from the creative process, we risk losing some of the interaction, authenticity, and inspiration through which God works in and through His people.