Traditional leadership studies have focused on the skills, traits, and behaviors of an individual, typically at the top of a hierarchical power structure. The current study sought to demonstrate a new paradigm of leadership, relational leadership, that focuses on the relationships between people and the organizational outcomes that are attainable through those interactions. Any person, regardless of role, title, or position, may contribute to the leadership (i.e., the growth, knowledge, and change) in a relational organization. This qualitative study utilized constructivist grounded theory methodology to identify relational constructs to be applied to the development of a theoretical model of relational leadership. Purposive and theoretical sampling was employed to intentionally identify participants who would help answer the research questions. Intensive interviews were conducted with 17 school leaders who are Christians to discern ideas regarding healthy school culture and ideal leaders and to define relational constructs related to these themes. The study identified school culture, the alignment of shared values, beliefs, and practices that define an organization as central to the development of a relational model. Love emerged as a core construct of a relational culture. Three essential attributes of a relational culture were identified as accountability, collaboration, and adaptability. Finally, three relational keys were revealed that surround and encompass the model: communication, time, and embracing the messiness. The implications of the research are useful to Christian elementary and secondary schools. A theoretical model of relational leadership was developed specifically for Christian school settings. The relational constructs that emerged in the data were supported by extant research. Future research that expands on the number and demographic of participants may support a broader generalization of the results. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]