Christmas Eve Disruptions Show Darkness Can Intrude On Sacred Spaces

Two Maryland churches faced an unsettling Christmas Eve as a man caused disruptions during their holiday services.

The chaos began at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Avenue when Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz allegedly dropped an onion in the aisle during Mass. As a parishioner tried to intervene, Von Goetz reportedly retaliated by throwing tangerines before fleeing the scene.

Hours later, Von Goetz appeared at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Leonardtown during midnight Mass. Witnesses say he poured whiskey into the holy water and used his liquor bottle to threaten attendees.

The congregation at St. Francis Xavier worked together to subdue Von Goetz, holding him until deputies arrived. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that he was taken to a hospital before being officially charged.

Von Goetz now faces seven charges, including religious crimes, disturbing the peace, and second-degree assault. His actions left a troubling mark on what should have been a peaceful night of worship.

The charges follow an incident that reminded many of the ever-present risks, even in places dedicated to faith and reflection.