The Press Association reports that former Nine O’Clock Service leader Christopher Brain was convicted of rape and four sexual assault charges, adding to 17 earlier indecent-assault convictions. The case highlights alleged abuse of religious authority and scrutiny of the Church of England’s historical response, while sentencing and an independent safeguarding review remain pending.
- Section
- Human Rights
- Format
- INSIGHT
- Published
- Oct 2, 2026, 04:05 PM
Verified facts: The Press Association reports that Christopher Brain, 69, a former Church of England priest and leader of Sheffield’s Nine O’Clock Service, was found guilty of one count of rape and four sexual assault charges in a retrial. He had previously been convicted of 17 indecent assaults against nine women, bringing his total convictions to 22 sexual offences against 13 women. Brain led the movement from 1986 to 1995 and resigned as a priest after allegations about his conduct were first raised. He is in custody awaiting sentencing. Victims will be able to provide impact statements, and an independent safeguarding review into the Church of England’s response is due to begin. The Church has apologised, while a survivor criticised it for failing to respond adequately to disclosures made decades ago.