The Wesleyan Church's governance structure is itinerant-connectional, combining local church autonomy with denominational connection. Authority flows through a connectional structure: local churches, district conferences, and the General Conference (the highest legislative body). Scripture is recognized as the supreme authority in all matters of faith and practice, and the Discipline (the church's official book of church order and doctrine) serves as a guide for interpretation and application.

The Wesleyan Church ordains both men and women to all levels of ministry—local church ministry, district superintendent, and General Superintendent. Women have been part of Wesleyan leadership since the denomination's founding and are fully integrated into the ordained ministry. The church's theology of authority emphasizes both the pastoral care of district overseers and the responsibility of local churches in their own governance. Apostolic succession is rejected; authority is grounded in Scripture and the gift of the Spirit to called and called-out leaders.