Disturbances at Christmas Eve Mass: Arrest of Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz

Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz’s disruptions during Christmas Eve Mass resulted in his arrest, shedding light on his alarming actions at two Maryland churches.

Disruptions at Two Churches

On December 24, during the solemn Mass at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Avenue, Von Goetz alarmed attendees by dropping an onion in the aisle. This seemingly odd act was a precursor to his more aggressive behavior as he left, where he allegedly threw tangerines, targeting fellow parishioners and disrupting the revered service. Later that evening, Von Goetz continued his spree of disruptions at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Leonardtown.

At St. Francis Xavier, the situation escalated. Von Goetz reportedly poured whiskey into the holy water, a grave desecration, causing fear and offense among the congregation. Authorities from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were called. During their efforts to escort Von Goetz out, he made threats and attempted to strike individuals with a whiskey bottle, showing disregard for the sanctity and safety of the churchgoers.

Legal Repercussions

Churchgoers acted quickly to detain Von Goetz until law enforcement arrived. He was subsequently arrested and taken to a hospital for evaluation. This incident highlights broader concerns about maintaining security in religious establishments. The charges he now faces are comprehensive, addressing both the physical disruptions and psychological threats imposed on the congregants attending the sacred Christmas service.

These charges include second-degree assault, disorderly conduct, defacing religious property, committing religious crimes against a group, obstructing a religious exercise, making threats of mass violence, and disturbing the peace. The list of charges underscores the severity of his actions and the legal consequences he faces, aiming to provide justice to the affected parishioners.

Community Reflection

This event shook the local communities, prompting reflection on how churches can better safeguard their gatherings. It calls into question the preparedness of places of worship to handle such unexpected situations. Churches may now seek to bolster their security measures to protect congregants, ensuring that such acts do not infringe upon the peace of religious observances.

The actions of Von Goetz not only disrupted a time of peace and reflection but served as a reminder of the persistent need for vigilance in public spaces. The faithful resolve of the churchgoers in the face of this disturbance demonstrates the strength and unity within these communities, even amidst adversity.

 

Sources:

https://www.wsfa.com/2024/12/27/man-arrested-disrupting-christmas-church-services-pouring-whiskey-into-holy-water-deputies-say/

https://news.yahoo.com/man-arrested-disrupting-christmas-church-025819344.html

https://www.wnd.com/2024/12/man-arrested-after-pouring-whiskey-in-holy-water-at-christmas-eve-mass/

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