October 19, 2019

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On October 15, 2019, Father Christopher Mould, Pastor of St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton, Virginia, freely admitted to me that he had sexual contact with a minor on one occasion during the years he was Parochial Vicar at St. Thomas à Becket Church in Reston, Virginia (1992-1995).  Upon receiving this news, in accordance with our Diocesan Policy for the Protection of Children and Young People, the Diocese reported this admission to the Fairfax County Police.  If anyone has information on this particular case, you are asked to contact the Fairfax County Police directly at (703) 246-7800 to speak to detectives.

In accord with our Policy, I immediately made arrangements for Father Mould to leave the rectory at St. Andrew the Apostle Church that same day, and to take up residence at a place where he would not be in contact with any minor near a church or school property. The Diocese of Arlington has committed its full cooperation with law enforcement in any investigation they pursue. It is important to note that prior to his recent admission of guilt, the Diocese of Arlington has never received a complaint of sexual abuse or misconduct against Father Mould.  

Father Mould has resigned the office of Pastor of St. Andrew the Apostle Church, and I have accepted his resignation. He currently holds no ecclesiastical office, and he is not permitted to exercise priestly ministry.   He will be subject to an ecclesiastical disciplinary process.   Father Mould has expressed deep contrition for his actions, and he accepts that there will be serious and severe consequences for them.  

The Diocese of Arlington is fully committed to a zero tolerance policy related to sexual abuse of minors. Any such incident is a grave sin and a profound betrayal of trust. I express my heartfelt regret to the individual who was harmed by Father Mould’s actions. As is the case with any instance of sexual abuse of a minor, I have ensured that the counseling services of our Victim Assistance Coordinator are available to anyone who may need them.

The Diocese encourages anyone who knows of any misconduct or abuse on the part of any cleric or employee of the Diocese to report it to the Virginia Attorney General hotline (VirginiaClergyHotline.com) and local police, and also to contact the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator at (703) 841-2530.  

I realize that this information is difficult for you to receive. While justice and a commitment to the protection of children and young people make these actions prudent and necessary, it also brings me sadness to know the impact they have on your community. 

In a timely manner, I will provide for the pastoral leadership of your parish. Please be assured that you will continue to be in my daily prayers. Through the intercession of Mary our Mother and St. Andrew the Apostle, may Our Lord Jesus bless you and fill you with His peace.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge
Bishop of Arlington