Source: Getting It Right: Clarifying Trademark and Branding Concerns Publisher: newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org | Author: Select or create an author... + Create new person Published: April 16, 2026 | Archived: April 26, 2026
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has filed a trademark and copyright complaint involving Open Stories Foundation and its “Mormon Stories” podcast. The issue is not the podcast’s viewpoint. It is the use of Church-protected names, images, and design elements in ways that are causing confusion about whether the content is official or affiliated with the Church.
What happened?
In November 2025, the Church contacted Open Stories Foundation privately about concerns with its branding. The goal was to resolve the matter privately and amicably.
The Church then engaged in good-faith mediation and proposed several options to reduce confusion while minimizing disruption. When those efforts did not result in resolution, the Church filed a complaint in federal court to protect its intellectual property.
Why does this matter?
The Church holds registered trademarks and copyrights so people can clearly identify what is and is not official Church communication. Names, logos, and visual design elements help people know when content represents the Church.
This case concerns branding choices that incorporate Church-protected names and design elements in ways that may lead people to believe the podcast is produced by or affiliated with the Church when it is not.
Why was mediation unsuccessful?
The primary issue is ongoing confusion about whether “Mormon Stories” is affiliated with the Church. To address that, the Church proposed a simple solution: a brief disclaimer that the podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is a common and straightforward way to help audiences understand the source of content. That step was not adopted. As a result, the likelihood of confusion remains, and the Church moved forward to protect its trademarks.
Is the Church trying to silence criticism?
No. People are free to express support for or criticism of the Church and its teachings. This case does not concern the content of the podcast. It concerns preventing confusion about source and affiliation.
Does the Church enforce trademarks consistently?
Yes. The Church reviews hundreds of potential trademark issues each year, including matters involving Church members and supportive creators. The first step is almost always private outreach. Most situations are resolved amicably. The same standards apply here.
Why now?
Public questions and ongoing confusion about whether “Mormon Stories” is official Church content made it necessary to act.
What about the term “Mormon”?
The Church holds trademarks covering certain uses of the term “Mormon,” including in connection with educational services. Not every use of the word requires permission. But when it is used as part of organizational branding in ways that create confusion about affiliation, the Church has a responsibility to address it.
The Church’s goal is simple: ensure people can clearly distinguish official Church materials from independent commentary.
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