The New Testament places the spiritual governance of a local church body in the hands of Elders. The role of the Elders is different from the implementers of ministry, which falls to the Founding Leaders,Pastors, Staff, and Volunteers. The Dwelling Place church is spiritually governed by Elders, led by the Founders Leaders, run by the Pastors, staff and volunteers, and owned by the church congregation.

The Dwelling Place operates with a plurality of leaders with a singular/primary head: Founding Senior Leaders Derek and Jessica Kelly. By singular headship, we do not mean singular rule. Rather, a unified team of leaders will surround the Founding Leaders to support and assist them. This plurality of leaders around the singular headship brings accountability, shared ownership, and vision.