How rapist priest exploited charisma to abuse his 'cult-like' congregation
Summary
Chris Brain, a former Church of England priest, has been found guilty of rape and several indecent assaults against women in his congregation. He led a popular and unconventional church group called the Nine O'Clock Service in Sheffield during the 1980s and 1990s, attracting hundreds of young people with a mix of music and activism.Key Facts
- Chris Brain led the Nine O'Clock Service (NOS), a church group blending music, prayer, and activism.
- NOS grew to hundreds of members, meeting weekly in Sheffield in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Brain required unpaid female helpers to perform housework and personal tasks for him.
- He was convicted of raping one woman and indecently assaulting others in his congregation.
- Brain used his position to pressure women into sexual acts, telling them refusing him would displease God.
- The movement started as an experimental service with a focus on electronic music and contemporary worship.
- Brain’s trial revealed that he often demanded physical affection in exchange for spiritual approval.
- He will receive a prison sentence, with sentencing scheduled for later this year.
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