The church is historically notable as the founding site of Christian Endeavor International, consider a major forerunner of modern youth ministries.

Separated from the church by a courtyard to its south is the parish house, a two-story brick building of compatible style.

Francis H. Fassett was the city's leading architect in the mid-19th century, and mentored John Calvin Stevens in his early years.

The church is also of historical note, for it was here that Francis Edward Clark established Christian Endeavor, a non-denominational youth ministry that is now international in its scope.

In 2014 the property was involved in a rezoning lawsuit in which the city of Portland eventually prevailed in the state supreme court.