Priest Convicted of Rape and Sexual Assault After Leading 'Cult' Church Service

Chris Brain, a 69-year-old priest who led a church service known as the Nine O'Clock Service (NOS), has been convicted of rape and four counts of sexual assault. The offenses occurred in the 1980s and 1990s against three women who were members of his congregation in Sheffield.

Jurors found Brain guilty after hearing evidence that he used his leadership position within NOS to sexually assault women. Victims testified that they felt pressured to comply with his demands, including giving him massages at his home, because they revered him as "the mouthpiece of God." An associate of Brain's compared him to Jimmy Savile, noting that the popularity of NOS with young people made him a favored figure within the Church of England.

Prosecutor Tim Clark KC described NOS as a movement that began with "vibrant" services, featuring live bands and light shows, but evolved into a cult dominated by Brain. He told the court that the defendant persuaded some congregants, often young women dressed in revealing clothing, to join his "homebase" team to cater to his needs. Some members were reportedly compelled to contribute their wages to a "common purse," and a newlywed couple was convinced to sell their home and donate the proceeds.

Brain denied the allegations, claiming that the sexual acts were consensual or that they did not occur. He has already been convicted of 17 counts of indecent assault against nine women. The court heard that the women's capacity to consent was undermined by Brain's domineering control over their lives and their fear of ostracization.

One victim recounted being "absolutely terrified" when Brain forced her to strip naked while she massaged him and he fondled her breasts. She testified that her "brain was frozen" and that Brain used religious influence to manipulate her, with others in the congregation praising him. Another complainant stated that she was "terrified" of Brain and could not question him. The court heard that some women felt "groomed" and that "no-one was able to stand up to" him. None of the victims can be identified for legal reasons.

During his ordination in 1991, significant funds were reportedly spent on robes for Brain that had been worn by actor Robert De Niro in the 1986 film "The Mission." In the 1990s, Brain was allegedly confronted by church members who believed he had abused up to 40 women. His response, according to reports, was, "I thought it was more."

Brain is scheduled to be sentenced by Her Honour Judge Freya Newbery at a later date. He has been on trial at Inner London Crown Court.