In 1784, George Leile, a freed slave from Georgia, in the USA, established the first Baptist church in Jamaica, at the corner of Windward and Elleston Roads.
In 1822, the congregation was moved to 27 Hanover Street by Rev. Joshua Tinson, who remained as pastor until 1843.
Between 1852 and 1892, Rev. Edwin Palmer, one of the first graduates of Calabar Theological College, served as the first native pastor.
Between 1899 and 1914, Rev. Edward Bell served as pastor. During that time, the chapel, which had been destroyed by the 1907 earthquake, was rebuilt to half its original size in 1911.
A succession of short-term pastorates followed, during which R.A.L. Knight, E. Brice, D. Davis, James Baker, M.B. Burgess and Walter Foster served as moderators and/or pastors.
In 1952, a young graduate of Calabar, Rev. Luther B. Gibbs, became the pastor and served until 1975, when he was called to serve at the Boulevard Baptist Church, one of the churches established by the Hanover Street church. The chapel was extended, in 1962, during his tenure.
In 1975, Rev. Ambrose Findlay moderated.
Between 1976 and 1980, Rev. Jeffrey McKenzie served and the Church expanded its social outreach.
Between 1980 and 1981, Rev. Stephen James moderated.
From 1981 through 1988, Rev. Trevor Edwards, a young graduate of the United Theological College served. The church’s social outreach expanded further, a two-storey building was erected and the community was impacted significantly.
Between 1988 and 1990, Rev. William Edwards moderated.
Between 1990 and 2001, Rev. Winston Clemetson served. The chapel was further renovated during his tenure.
From 2001 through 2004, Rev. Dr. Vivian Panton moderated.
Since 2004, Rev. Franklin A. Small has been serving as the pastor.