Opened in 1857 and designed by the famous architect, Charles Lanyon, the church was built in memory of John Sinclair, a local-born businessman, whose family made donations to build places of worship both here and in America. The congregation grew out of mission work among the seamen arriving in the Port of Belfast.

The interior of this Venetian style church has a maritime theme. Shipyard workers, dockers and sailors at the time of Titanic would have felt at home in its ship-like interior.  The pulpit is shaped as a ship’s prow and is flanked by navigation lights. Over time many artefacts have found a home in the building, among them a ship’s binnacle font and the bell of HMS Hood (First World War Ship) which is used to call the congregation to worship at evening services.