About us.

Belfast City Mission is an Urban Evangelistic Mission . We are among one of the oldest Urban Missions still in existence. Our work is carried out in the inner City districts alongside a number of areas in greater Belfast. Currently we cover 16 districts where we have Mission Halls and Centres used for evangelism. We are faith based but we are supported in our work by many churches in the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, auxiliary fellowships alongside generous donations and gifts from other churches and individuals.

The aim of our Mission is to see the promotion of the Gospel of Christ in our City and to give God the glory in all we say and do. We seek to encourage those who have lost direction in their lives to look to Christ as “The Way”. For those who are seeking understanding in their lives to look to Christ as “The Truth”. To those who have lost hope in their lives to look to Christ as “The Life”. We forward these aims in spiritual and practical ways.

These include: Gospel Services, Bible Study, Prayer Fellowships, Men`s and Women`s groups, Youth organisations, Pastoral Visitation, Outreach, Luncheon Fellowships, Homework Clubs, Mother and Toddler groups, English Classes and association with Food Banks.

How it started…

The formation of the Mission extends back to the year 1827. The Rev Reuben John Bryce had a deep concern for the spiritual welfare of the unchurched and the indifferent in thethen town of Belfast. Subsequently alongside a number of other clerical and lay members of the community the Mission was formed to be then known as “Belfast Town Mission”.

1927 brought the centenary of the Mission. A Mission that commenced in a small way had grown in the intervening century with all the changes and developments that time brought to 29 mission districts and 29 missionaries (agents). Belfast had also increased in population which meant it had been raised from the rank of town to that of a city. It was decided that the name of the Mission be then changed to be known as Belfast City Mission.

During the period of the Second World War and also in the 70`s and 80`s during the period known as the “troubles” the Belfast City Mission continued to be a vital source of encouragement and help. People longed for peace and hope in the midst of turmoil and strife and the Mission provided throughout the districts of the City.

The Mission Halls provided a place to come and enjoy fellowship in a warm and friendly environment. People got a sense of belonging with lifelong relationships created but most importantly there were many who came to a relationship in Christ.

The Mission has been involved in Urban Evangelism for 192 years. Society has changed, population continues to change and the City has become more diverse in orientation. Despite this the Mission continues to reach out into the communities at large. It remains a steady work and a faithful witness, with many testimonies from people who have reason to thank God for it being an instrument in their salvation.

1827

The story begins

16

active halls

192

years and counting