Our congregation was established in 1851 by Rev. Dr. John Gray, although the “Sabbath School” was started in 1834, the first of its kind in Orillia.  The basement of the original church was ready for services in the fall of 1851, and the building completed in 1852.  This structure was enlarged twice (eventually with a seating capacity of 650) and then in 1888, the present Sanctuary was built, opening in 1889 with seating for over 1000.  The cornerstone for the north wing was laid in 1912, and provided the congregation with Christian Education space as well as banquet and meeting rooms.  The church was designated as a Heritage Building in 1983.

The first pipe organ was installed in 1893 (the present organ facade is from this organ) and in 1921 was moved to the rear of the building, making room for the placement of a 4 Manual Casavant in the main chamber.  A lightening strike in the summer of 1985 completely destroyed the Echo organ, and a new Echo division was installed in 1986.  The main organ was rebuilt and enlarged in 1997 by Orgues Létourneau, and remains one of the largest pipe organs in Canada.

In 2005, a sophisticated audio-visual system was installed in the Sanctuary, complete with twin projectors and screens, control desk, computer, multi-media equipment, and cameras.  This system has been a great addition to our Worship services, concerts, and special events, while not detracting from the original 1888 architecture.