The church has occupied it’s current facility in Percy Street, Portland’s main thoroughfare, since 1889.  The building was formerly a Masonic Temple constructed in 1876.  The church had occupied other premises previously following its formal commencement in June 1859.

For a long period, the church members have been aware that the present bluestone building has considerable limitations.  It is no longer able to accommodate Sunday morning attendances with there being sufficient room for growth.  An experiment of several years saw two Sunday morning services being held to ease the pressure on accommodation.  Over a period of time, it became clear that the people preferred a single service as a way of maintaining a richer sense of community.

In order to accommodate the numbers, the original Sunday School hall which is directly situated below the sanctuary was linked to the latter via sound and picture so that an overflow congregation is readily accommodated downstairs with Sunday School relocating to Church House.

All this is an interim measure though.  After several years of conversation, planning and decision making, the church has moved on two fronts.  A 5.7acre fully service block of land has been secured in Learmonth Street on the north edge of town.  This block has now been fully paid for. God is good!
The second development is that plans are now drawn for a two stage approach to the erection of a purpose built community centre to meet the needs of both the church and the wider Portland community.  It is intended that this facility be available for use seven days a week.

The church has been fortunate to secure full tax deductibility for the entire project providing an avenue of support for many who are able to benefit from the tax deduction provision.  Any wishing to make full use of the provision should contact the Church Treasurer, Bruce Honeybun 03 5523 6750 or 0427 494 524, for details on how to work with us in this marvellous project.