Every group of people needs leadership to grow, function efficiently, and make a difference. The leadership of the Laurel Canyon church of Christ is based on the pattern laid out by God in the New Testament. A vital element of the divine plan for local churches is oversight provided by elders (1 Tim 3:1-7; Tit 1:5-9). The Bible refers to men who fill this important role of service as “shepherds” or “pastors” (Eph 4:11), “bishops” or “overseers” (Acts 20:28), and “leaders” (Heb 13:7; 1 Thes 5:12).