A former Church of England priest is standing trial for allegedly abusing his position as a spiritual leader to sexually assault members of a church group he led in Sheffield.
Christopher Brain, 68, was the founder and leader of the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS), an experimental and youth-focused worship movement that operated under the Church of England between 1986 and 1995. Brain, who was ordained during that period, is now facing one count of rape and 36 counts of indecent assault involving 13 women.
The trial, which began this week at Inner London Crown Court, heard that Brain allegedly used his authority within the group to exert emotional, spiritual and physical control over female members. Prosecutors described NOS as having evolved into a “closed and controlled group” where Brain dominated and manipulated the lives of his congregation.
Many of the alleged offences are said to have taken place in the context of private spiritual practices, under the pretence of pastoral care or leadership. Prosecutor Tim Clark KC said some women were so under Brain’s influence that their capacity to consent had been “removed” due to fear of exclusion and a belief that disobedience would equate to spiritual failure.
Several women told police they believed they were following God's will by submitting to Brain’s instructions, and feared they were failing in their Christian walk if they resisted. One complainant said she felt “terrified” of him, while another described him as a “Jekyll and Hyde character”.
The court was told that members were often encouraged to cut ties with family and friends outside of the group, deepening their dependence on NOS and its leader. Some reportedly gave up inheritances, homes and careers in service to the movement.
The Church of England has previously acknowledged serious failings in the oversight of NOS. Concerns had reportedly been raised by senior clergy as early as the 1990s, including a confrontation where Brain was told he may have abused up to 40 women, to which he allegedly replied, “I thought it was more.”
Brain, who was removed from ministry in 1995, denies all charges. The trial continues.
