Early in Mr. McKinnon’s ministry plans were formulated for the building of a new church. In January 1894 a canvass was planned for a new church. At a congregational meeting held on February 7th, 1895, it was moved by Jas. Dickson, seconded by Wm. McKendry, and carried, “That a new church be built”. At a later meeting, held in March of the same year, F. Sanford, Dr. Mason, F. McDougall, and E. Fitzgerald were appointed as a committee to see to the design and location of the new church. A meeting held on April 8th, 1895, authorized the sale of the church and lot on Francis Street, also purchase, for the new church, of Lot 1, West of Colborne and North of Bond Streets, known as the Fitzgerald Lot. The deed was executed on August 2nd, 1895, and registered Sept. 20th, 1895. The price paid was $400.00. Trustees were R. Lee, Dr. Mason, Jas. Dickson, Peter Moffat, and E. Chambers.
Little time was lost in erecting the new church. Congregational minutes during the latter part of 1895 record such items as the raising of a mortgage of $2,800.00 for the church, the installation of lighting and a furnace, and the moving of the shed from the old Francis Street location to the rear of the new church. The building contractor was Mr. Alex McLeod.
The new church was opened for worship on November 10, 1895. Whether this was the official opening, or the first in a series of opening events is uncertain in view of the minutes of a meeting held nine days later, in which it is reported that Mr. McKinnon had been asked to secure Dr. Cochrane, and resident ministers for lectures at the opening of the new church. Reports from all committees were received at the same meeting. The church contract amounted to $3,600. Sale of the old church and grounds brought $550.00. The total cost of the church with lighting and furnishings was under $6,000.00. At the time of the opening of the church a Communion Service was presented by the Howery family.