Amish church authority is exercised by the local congregation (Gemeinde) through its bishop (Bischof), ministers (Prediger), and deacons, all of whom are chosen by lot from men nominated by the congregation — a practice understood as leaving the selection to God. The bishop holds the highest authority within the congregation and is responsible for maintaining the Ordnung (community rules) and applying church discipline.

There is no central Amish organization, synod, or denominational headquarters. Each congregation (district) is autonomous, and bishops in an area may form informal networks of mutual support. The Ordnung — which governs dress, technology, worship, and many practical aspects of life — differs modestly between districts, leading to ongoing negotiation about what constitutes faithful practice.