There is no Formal Government

Within the Amish community, a singular authority reigns supreme – the divine word of God. While they do possess their own set of guidelines, it’s not a governmental structure but a means to align their lives with the divine will. The trappings of secular government have no bearing on their way of life and are unequivocally dismissed.

Without government intervention, the Amish church assumes the role of arbiter in matters of justice and retribution. However, in cases involving grave transgressions that transcend the church’s jurisdiction, they exercise pragmatism and engage the external authorities, understanding the limitations of their own system.