It is the church for the Jelsa parish which is part of the Ryfylke prosti (deanery) in the Diocese of Stavanger.

[4][5] In the 1850s, the church underwent a major restoration and a sacristy was constructed on the east side of the choir and the exterior walls were re-sided.

Also, the second floor galleries with additional seating were constructed around the sides of the nave.

The richly decorated bench rails and doors from the original interior were restored and supplemented.

Also, Christian IV's royal monogram was hung above the chancel opening.