Former C of E Vicar Convicted of 17 Indecent Assaults in Sheffield

Chris Brain, a former Church of England priest and leader of the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) evangelical movement in Sheffield, has been found guilty of 17 counts of indecent assault against nine women spanning from 1986 to 1995. The NOS was known for its unconventional services targeting young people with rock music and rave culture, but prosecutors described it as a cult-like group where Brain abused his position to manipulate and isolate female followers. Brain was acquitted of 15 other counts, and deliberations continue on additional charges including rape. The Church of England has issued an unreserved apology for its institutional failings in handling past concerns and has committed to an independent review of its safeguarding policies. Victims described a culture of fear and grooming, with some recounting inappropriate touching during massages and a controlling environment reinforced by a so-called "homebase team" of women attending Brain. The case highlights ongoing issues around abuse of power within religious institutions and the need for improved protection for vulnerable members.