Worship and homilies befitting an ancient and mystical religion that, as the literary theorist and skeptic Terry Eagleton notes, “has repeatedly exhibited the capacity to ‘link the most exalted truths to the daily existence of countless men and women.” Catholicism in all its dignified, beautiful “ever ancient, ever new” glory- the ancient chants are sung alongside palestrina, viadana, and the greatest English hymns. Worshiping God takes focus here.Okay, despite some of the admitted pretensions in this review, the services are simple and dignified, lots of incense, the homilies moving and nuanced (Fr Allen’s presence would be enough without all the other stuff!), and the parishioners friendly.There’s also something very distinctly old Charleston about the whole setting. In contrast to the commercialization and touristing of the surrounding area, many of the families have been in this parish for many generations, suits and ties are the norm, and you’ll hear some old lowcountry accents. That being said, yankees are still welcome.The normal mass is 9am Sunday, and the more traditional, old school Anglican-inspired Ordinariate mass follows at 11am. I recommend both, but I’m a cradle catholic who fell in love with the latter. Weekday Masses at 8am except Friday.

I have lived in Charleston since the 90s and this weekend was the first time I ever visited this church. It is definitely on the smaller side but has such an intimate feel. The stained glass and painted wall are stunning.

Church stays open all day so the public can come in and pray. A sign out front welcomes everyone. There are stunning details everywhere you look. Beautiful place!! Walk through the cemetery around the back when you visit.

Saint Marys on Hassell Street in Charleston is a beautiful and historic church. I really like the cool columns on the outside of the church and the interior of the church is wonderfully designed too. Everyone at this church as very friendly and welcoming. I like learning the history of the church and you can feel all of the years and centuries all around you as you enter and walk around.

We arrived in downtown Charleston on Good Friday. This was our first stop. Gorgeous church! Old historic grave yard outside of the church.

Come and enjoy the oldest Catholic Church and cemetery in the Carolinas and Georgia! The Ordinariate Mass restores the beauty of holiness of the English Anglican Patrimony in the Mass (like attending a Latin Mass in English) - a must see for all!

St. Marys is a beautiful, authentic, historic Catholic church nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston. Whether youre just poking your head in for a peek at the grand ceiling, or looking for a gorgeous venue to have your wedding, this place is fabulous! Ive photographed many weddings at this church, and it never fails to inspire me!!!

Beautiful historic church in heart of downtown Charleston. Seems to be a traditional (not urban avant-guard) congregation. I felt very comfortable as a visiting worshiper.

Youngest son got married in this church back in May 2018 . Absolutely beautiful venue for a small wedding in beautiful downtown Charleston SC

I absolutely love this church! Whenever I am in Charleston, I come to their Sunday Mass. My boyfriend and I had been trying to find a traditional (almost pre-Vatican)Roman Catholic Church in Charleston and we were so lucky when we found St. Mary’s. They have always been so welcoming, even though I live in NY and come to Charleston only a couple times a year. The building itself is historic and absolutely beautiful. The Latin music is also breathtaking. Every time I have attended mass there, I have enjoyed the homily.

Beautiful service. Check out the Marian grotto and the rosary sidewalk. What a cool way to introduce your children to the rosary!

First Catholic Church of the Carolinas and Georgia. Sacred space to pray and worship. Wonderful homilies, Great community. Inspirational worship music.

Beautiful and reverent Mass celebrated in this historical Catholic Church in the heart of town. Friendly religious and parishioners will welcome you!Lovely Sunday Mass, at one of Charlestons oldest churches. Impressive frescoes adorn the ceiling of this church. A real gem for both Catholics and history lovers! You will appreciate its old fashioned pews, altar rails and stained glass windows. At the heart of historical Charleston and within walking distance to every popular attraction.

Beautiful Church, beautiful liturgy, amazing choir! Blessed to have had the opportunity to worship there!

This church still has and practice old world celebration something that i believe in!!!!!

Historical 1700 Stained glass from Germany.

First time at an Anglican Ordinariate Catholic Mass. Loved the solemnity.

Priests are very helpful. Excellent traditional mass.

Old style Catholic mass that was inspirational and refreshing.

A wonderful community with some great music!

Deeply traditional Catholic Church. Wonderful people; wonderful place to worship.

Beautiful church, very informative homily encouraging leadership by service

The beautiful old church. Nice friendly people.

St Mary’s Catholic Church is a beautiful, welcoming place. Wheelchair access on the east side and friendly people.

Amazing church!Had a family wedding there!

Beautiful, small Catholic church. Make sure to look up and check out the ceiling. Starting July 2017, the Corpus Christi Catholic Community (a community of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter) worships at St Marys. The 11 AM Corpus Christi Mass is a somewhat different form than the regular Catholic Mass, so be prepared for slightly different ritual and responses.

A truly beautiful church with a long, rich, history. The organist, Larry, and cantor, Courtney, enrich the very traditional service with their beautiful voices and music. The coffee hour and spread of food (a veritable full brunch buffet and not to be taken forgranted!) after church is a wonderful and welcoming tradition at St. Marys.

Such a beautiful church to visit— happy to have a church in walking distance for Sunday

Beautifull

Beautiful church!

Beautiful piece of Charleston history

What a beautiful church, this mother church of South and North Carolina and Georgia.

Great church and congration!

Beautiful church

Amazing.