SAINT MARK'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC
Fr. Michael Shaffer officially named 23rd Rector of St. Mark’s
A New Season Begins at
St. Mark’s
Fr. Michael Shaffer Named 23rd Rector of St. Mark’s
On May 25, 2025, we joyfully welcomed the next chapter in our church’s journey.
The Very Rev. Dr. Michael Shaffer, who has faithfully led us as Interim Rector since 2023, has officially accepted the call to serve as the 23rd Rector of Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church, Charleston. His leadership, grounded in compassion and clarity, continues to guide us as we live into the fullness of our mission.
A Season of Change, A Call Confirmed
A milestone moment in the legacy of St. Mark’s
Fr. Michael came to St. Mark’s in 2023, during what was expected to be a time of transition. But what followed was far more transformative.
Under his guidance, we renewed our mission, reignited our spirit, and leaned into our call to live inclusively, promote justice, and share hope.
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His leadership felt less like a placeholder and more like a beginning. The call became clear—to him and to us. This was a covenant worth continuing.
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"I am humbled, honored, and proud to serve as rector of this historic parish, which understands that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not political talking points, but Christian values.
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“If reading this has sparked something in your heart, I hope you’ll bring your gifts, your doubts, your curiosity—but most of all, your full self. There’s a place for you here.”
Fr. Michael Shaffer, Rector, St, Mark's Episcopal Church
Rooted in Faith. Guided by Justice. Committed to Community.
A Voice for This Moment
Meet
Fr. Michael
5 Things to Know
Former Prosecutor
Led criminal trials before entering ministry.
Dual Calling
Ordained while still practicing law.
Inspired by Canterbury
Guided by teachings of two Archbishops.
Fr. Michael Shaffer brings over 25 years of ordained ministry to St. Mark’s.
He’s served as Dean of the Charleston Peninsula Deanery and led parishes from Missouri to Washington to South Carolina. A former trial attorney with more than 200 jury verdicts, his life’s arc shifted toward priesthood—a call to “make God real to people.”
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He and his wife Erin are deeply committed to social equity and justice, supporting causes that lift up all people.
He now helps lead “Three Churches United,” a partnership with Calvary and St. Stephen’s—two other historic African American parishes on the peninsula.
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Living the Mission
There’s Room at the Table for Everyone
St. Mark’s isn’t just inclusive on paper. Every Sunday, people of every race, age, and orientation gather to worship together.
We honor our African American roots while embracing the future—right here in the diverse heart of Radcliffeborough.
We are the Beloved Community Dr. King envisioned. And if you’re looking for a place to grow into the person you were created to be—you may have just found it.