Former Priest on Trial for Sexual Assault in Sheffield Cult Allegations

Christopher Brain, a former priest and leader of the evangelical Nine O'Clock Service (NOS) in Sheffield from 1986 to 1995, is on trial at Inner London Crown Court accused of one count of rape and 36 counts of indecent assault against 13 women. Prosecutors allege that NOS operated as a cult in which Brain abused his authority to sexually assault numerous women, controlling and isolating them from friends and family. Brain denies the charges and insists that the group was a consensual, free, and caring environment, claiming he led the congregation by consensus and denied any coercion or cult-like control. He admitted to some sexual contact but maintained it was consensual, rejecting allegations of brainwashing, manipulation, and control tactics such as enforcing uniform clothing or ostracism. Brain described his leadership role as more of a producer behind the scenes rather than a dominating frontman and denied being a 'controlling maniac' or coercing members into obedience or sexual acts. The trial continues as jurors consider the testimonies and evidence regarding the nature of the NOS and Brain's conduct.