The Methodist Church in Samoa is warning the public not to use or reproduce any of the church's hymns in Samoan without permission.
In a public notice, the church says all of its religious songs and hymns are now protected by copyright law.
The call is supported by the secretary of the Council of Churches, Reverend Motu Mauga, who told local television that several people have reproduced hymns for financial return.
He says the practice should be stopped because hymns are not intended for entertainment but for the glory of God.
It has also been alleged some churches have recorded other churches' music for sale.
