Several new congregations have, however, been formed recently in the Belfast area, along with fellowships in Galway, Limerick and Dublin.

The church's roots date back to the 17th-century plantation of Ulster by Scots Presbyterian settlers.

When the Revolution Settlement was entered into in 1690 following the victory of William III in the Williamite War, a minority of Presbyterians refused to subscribe, claiming its failure to specifically recognise the kingship of Jesus Christ was a departure from the Solemn League and Covenant of 1643.

There is also a strong emphasis on Christian doctrine, including the sacredness of the Lord's Day, along with other RPCI beliefs.

The RPCI is involved in mission work around the world, including France, Spain, Sudan and Japan.