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Downtown Charleston's Inclusive Episcopal Church

Living inclusively, promoting justice, sharing hope. Experience vibrant Episcopal worship in Radcliffe Borough, where love, acceptance, and faith unite our Charleston community since 1865.

Clergy and choir members participate in a service at Saint Mark's Episcopal Church in down

Moments We’ll Share Together

Certain moments have a way of grounding us, drawing us in, and reminding us why community matters.

These shared moments invite connection, reflection, and joy—bringing people together through meaningful traditions, honest conversation, and a sense of belonging that lasts beyond the day itself. Come as you are. There’s a place for you here.

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Sunday, February 15, 2026, 2 PM - 5 PM

Mardi Gras Oyster Roast

Steam rises, masks shimmer, and oysters pile high—Charleston’s most flavorful Sunday is calling. Celebrate Mardi Gras, Lowcountry-style, at St. Mark’s annual Oyster Roast. Enjoy all-you-can-eat oysters, chili, hot dogs, live music, and cold drinks as the afternoon turns festive and the community comes alive. Come hungry, bring friends, and stay awhile—this is one of those events people talk about long after the shells are gone.

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Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 5 PM — 6:30 PM

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

A simple, joyful evening of pancakes, conversation, and community as we prepare our hearts for the season of Lent. Tuesday, February 17 • 5:00–6:30 PM Parish House, 18 Thomas Street Pancakes, sausage, bacon & beverage Free and open to all Hosted by the Men’s Club of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

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Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 12 Noon

Ash Wednesday Service

A quiet beginning. A moment to reflect, reset, and step into Lent with intention. Discover what Ash Wednesday offers. Each Ash Wednesday the people of God are invited to a Holy Lent – an intentional time each year that provides us an invitation to look inward at our spiritual lives and spend more time in thought, prayer and reflection with God. Sacramental Rite of Reconciliation of the Penitent (Confession) available after the service.

OUR VALUES

A Warm, Inclusive
Episcopal Community on the Charleston Peninsula —
Come As You Are

At St. Mark’s Episcopal Church near MUSC and Ashley Hall, we’re dedicated to creating a truly welcoming space where people from every background can grow and thrive in their faith. We bring together our Charleston Peninsula neighbors in love, service, and the teachings of Jesus—uniting a diverse community right in the heart of downtown.

A priest and a congregant lifting a processional lantern during a service at St. Mark’s Ep

A Welcoming Episcopal Church Community in Downtown Charleston

Looking for an inclusive Episcopal church near MUSC and Harleston Village? St. Mark’s brings together neighbors, students, and families for joyful worship, meaningful service, and real community in the heart of Charleston.

Faith That Speaks
to You

Feeling overwhelmed—or just searching for something deeper?

This week’s message meets you where you are, with real talk, relatable wisdom, and faith that doesn’t pretend life is perfect.

Watch now and discover a God who gets it—and a church that welcomes the questions.

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Meet Our Rector

Walking Forward in Faith with the Very Rev. Dr. Michael Shaffer

On May 25, 2025, The Very Rev. Dr. Michael Shaffer was called as the 23rd Rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. That calling came to life on September 6, 2025, when our parish joined with the Bishop of South Carolina for a joyful induction service filled with gratitude and celebration. Since first arriving as Interim Rector in 2023, Fr. Michael has brought clarity, compassion, and renewed purpose—helping us live into our call to: ​Live Inclusively. Promote Justice. Share Hope. ​Now, as our rector, he leads us with humility and wisdom, inviting everyone—whether you’re brand new or long connected—to be part of this next chapter. There’s room here for your faith, your questions, and your voice. Let’s walk forward—together.

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Calendar Of Events

  • Sunday Worship Service
    Sunday Worship Service
    Multiple Dates
    6 days to the event
    Sun, Feb 15
    Charleston
    Feb 15, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
    Charleston, 16 Thomas St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
    Join us for a special night of worship and community in our welcoming sanctuary. Experience uplifting music, inspiring messages, and meaningful conversations that strengthen our bonds.
    Share
  • Mardi Gras Oyster Roast
    Mardi Gras Oyster Roast
    6 days to the event
    Sun, Feb 15
    Saint Mark's Episcopal Church
    Feb 15, 2026, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
    Saint Mark's Episcopal Church, 16 Thomas St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
    Steam rises, masks shimmer, and oysters pile high—Charleston’s most flavorful Sunday is calling.
    Share
  • Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
    Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
    8 days to the event
    Tue, Feb 17
    Saint Mark's Episcopal Church
    Feb 17, 2026, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
    Saint Mark's Episcopal Church, 16 Thomas St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
    A simple, joyful evening of pancakes, conversation, and community as we prepare our hearts for the season of Lent.
    Share
  • Ash Wednesday Service
    Ash Wednesday Service
    9 days to the event
    Wed, Feb 18
    Saint Mark's Episcopal Church
    Feb 18, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
    Saint Mark's Episcopal Church, 16 Thomas St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
    A quiet beginning. A moment to reflect, reset, and step into Lent with intention. Discover what Ash Wednesday offers.
    Share
SPECIAL SERVICE

Three Churches United
Full Service
Now On-Demand

If you missed our recent and powerful Sunday service with special guest, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry… good news: you can still experience every uplifting moment.


From the music to the message, it was one of those rare mornings when the room felt stitched together by hope, courage, and God’s fierce, inclusive love.

Watch the entire service on demand now.


Settle in, press play, and let it bless your week.

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Divine Words, Weekly Wisdom

Fuel the Spirit of St. Mark's

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Contact Us

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