Christopher Brain Sexual Assault Trial

Christopher Brain, a 68-year-old former priest, is on trial at United Kingdom — Inner London Crown Court accused of one count of rape and 36 counts of indecent assault against 13 women. The alleged offenses occurred between 1981 and 1995 while Brain led the Nine O Clock Service (NOS), an evangelical movement within the Church of England in Sheffield. Prosecutors claim Brain created a cult-like environment, dominating members' lives, encouraging isolation from family, and abusing his position to sexually assault women. The court heard that Brain's ordination was fast-tracked despite concerns, and he exhibited 'grandiose self-regard'. Allegations surfaced in 1995, leading to a confrontation where Brain reportedly admitted to more victims than initially believed, and he subsequently resigned from holy orders. Brain denies all charges, asserting that any sexual contact was consensual and that NOS was not a cult. The trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.