'Cult' priest guilty of rape and assault of women

Chris Brain, a former priest who founded a cult within the Church of England, has been found guilty of raping a woman and committing four counts of indecent assault against three other women. The 69-year-old was convicted at Inner London Crown Court after a retrial. Brain, previously of Wilmslow in Greater Manchester, is currently in custody awaiting sentencing.

The Nine O Clock Service (NOS), led by Brain, was known for its nightclub-style worship that blended rave culture, live music, and prayer. However, it is alleged that the group became a cult where members were encouraged to cut themselves off from family and friends, leading to them being utterly dependent on Brain and living in fear of ostracisation if they displeased him.

Prosecutors say Brain abused his position as a priest to sexually assault a significant number of women from his congregation. The verdicts mean Brain has now been convicted of 22 sexual offences against 13 women. Several of Brain's victims were part of a "homebase team" who cared for him 24/7 in his family home and were expected to perform sexual massages.

One victim testified that Brain raped her while she was traumatised after volunteering at the Hillsborough disaster. Brain admitted to some sexual contact with the women but claimed it was consensual, stating it was for closeness and affection. However, victims and prosecutors paint a different picture of abuse and manipulation.

Brain has been accused of ignoring warning signs about his behaviour by church leaders. Two members of clergy had raised concerns with the Diocese of Sheffield years before his conviction. Following his conviction, the Bishop of Sheffield apologised for institutional failures and announced an independent safeguarding investigation into the Church's response. The church's lawyer emphasized that Brain was fast-tracked to ordination, supported, promoted, and protected by the Church of England.

Police have described Brain as a "devious and arrogant sexual predator" who caused lasting harm to the women he sexually assaulted. Victims have waited decades to receive justice, and their continued healing is seen as a cause for shame by one victim. The church's investigative process is ongoing, and victims will be given the opportunity to deliver impact statements during the sentencing hearing.