St. Charles Parish in Hartland, Wisconsin has been part of the community since the 1800s. It’s the kind of parish where families have been members for generations – you’ll meet people whose grandparents were married there.
The Church Itself
The current building isn’t the original – that was a small wooden structure typical of rural Wisconsin parishes. Over the decades they expanded and renovated as the congregation grew. What stands now has the architectural character you’d expect from a traditional Catholic church while being practical enough to serve a modern congregation.
The sanctuary is peaceful. Stained glass, traditional iconography, the smell of candles and old wood. It’s the kind of space that feels like it’s absorbed a century of prayers.
Mass Schedule
They run daily masses in the morning for people who want that rhythm in their lives. Weekend masses on Saturday evening and Sunday morning accommodate different schedules. Check their website for exact times since they occasionally shift for holy days or special events.
Confession is available, and they handle the usual sacraments – baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals. First communion prep runs through the year for kids in the religious education program.
The School
St. Charles School covers preschool through eighth grade. It’s a typical Catholic school setup – academic curriculum with religion classes woven in, plus the usual emphasis on values and community service.
For adults, they offer Bible studies and faith formation classes. The parish tries to have something for every age group, not just the kids.
Community Involvement
The parish does the standard outreach – food drives, clothing donations, Thanksgiving meal distribution. What I like is that it’s not performative. People show up because they’ve been doing it for years and it’s just part of being a member.
Social events throughout the year keep the community connected. Parish picnics, holiday gatherings, that kind of thing. It matters more than it might seem – you build relationships that last.
Getting in Touch
The parish is at 313 Circle Drive in Hartland. Office is open during business hours if you need to reach someone. Website has current information on masses and events.
