Christmas Eve Disruptions At Maryland Churches Highlight Security Challenges

A Maryland man caused chaos at two churches on Christmas Eve, disrupting services and leaving parishioners rattled.

The first incident took place at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Avenue, where authorities said 56-year-old Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz dropped an onion in the aisle during Mass. When a parishioner confronted him outside, Von Goetz allegedly threw tangerines before fleeing.

Later that night, during midnight Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Leonardtown, Von Goetz reportedly poured whiskey into the holy water and threatened worshippers with a liquor bottle.

Members of the congregation at St. Francis Xavier detained Von Goetz until deputies arrived. He was later taken to a hospital for medical evaluation before being charged with seven offenses, including second-degree assault, religious crimes, and defacing property.

The disturbances served as a chilling reminder of how even sacred spaces can be vulnerable to disruptions and acts of aggression.

Both churches experienced heightened attendance for Christmas services, reflecting the significance of the holiday for local communities.

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