A Maryland man’s Christmas Eve turned chaotic when he disrupted two church services, leaving congregants and law enforcement both stunned and concerned for safety. Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz, 56, has been charged with multiple offenses following bizarre behavior at Holy Angels Catholic Church and St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.
According to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the disruptions began shortly after 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Von Goetz entered Holy Angels Catholic Church, where he approached the altar and dropped an onion on the aisle floor—a move reportedly intended to disturb the peace of the Mass. Witnesses say the unusual action caught the attention of parishioners and raised eyebrows during this sacred celebration.
The situation escalated when, as churchgoers escorted Von Goetz out of the building, he allegedly turned around and assaulted a concerned parishioner by throwing tangerines at them. This provocative act was just the start of his troubling holiday display.
Later, during the Midnight Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Von Goetz continued his spectacle. Reports indicate he poured whiskey directly onto the church's holy water, creating shock among those attending the service. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with Von Goetz reportedly threatening to harm several parishioners.
Church attendees acted quickly to escort Von Goetz from St. Francis Xavier, but he attempted to strike multiple individuals with the whiskey bottle he had been using just moments earlier. Fortunately, parishioners managed to detain him until law enforcement arrived. Officers from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office took Von Goetz to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for evaluation before proceeding with his arrest.
On December 26, he was officially charged with second-degree assault, disorderly conduct, and several religious-related offenses, including defacing religious property and obstructing a religious exercise. Additional charges include making threats of mass violence and causing disturbances during church services.
“This behavior is completely unacceptable, especially during such sacred times,” stated Sheriff Tim Cameron. “We thank the parishioners for their prompt response which helped prevent any harm coming to others.”
Entering 2024, Von Goetz remains held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, awaiting his court appearance. His actions on Christmas Eve serve as a bizarre episode during what is typically seen as a time of reflection and community for many.
Witnesses at both churches continued to grapple with the incidents. Many expressed feelings of disbelief over the events. “You never expect something like this to happen at church, especially on Christmas,” said one congregant.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens to remain vigilant at public events and report any suspicious behavior immediately. Community leaders are also reflecting on how to maintain safety during religious gatherings, emphasizing the need for secure spaces where individuals can celebrate without fear.
Christmas is often seen as the epitome of joy and peace, but for the congregations at Holy Angels and St. Francis Xavier, this holiday season brought with it unexpected disruption. With the man's disruptive actions startling churchgoers, the legal ramifications of his behavior are sure to follow him as he faces several charges.
