Rev Christopher Brain, the founder of the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) in Sheffield, has appeared in court facing charges of rape and multiple indecent assaults against women within his congregation.

The allegations, spanning over four decades, have brought to light disturbing incidents that occurred during the height of the NOS movement.

Decades-Old Allegations Surface

The charges against Brain stem from alleged incidents dating back to the period between 1981 and 1995.

It is reported that he sexually assaulted 11 women, with the offences ranging from indecent assaults to a solitary rape offence that occurred approximately 40 years ago.

The allegations paint a disturbing picture of coercive and predatory behavior within the church community.

Details of the Allegations

The charges include accounts of Brain engaging in various forms of sexual misconduct, including forcibly kissing women, simulating rape scenes, and engaging in inappropriate touching during massages.

Some of the allegations describe incidents where Brain pinned women down, making lewd comments and subjecting them to unwanted advances.

Legal Proceedings

Brain appeared before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court, where he wore a Covid mask and spoke only to confirm his identity.

The seriousness of the charges prompted the district judge to transfer the case to Sheffield Crown Court for further proceedings.

Brain was released on unconditional bail pending his appearance at the Crown Court on April 15.

The Rise and Fall of the Nine O’Clock Service

The Nine O’Clock Service gained notoriety in the 1990s for its unconventional approach to worship, featuring nightclub-like services that attracted a young audience.

However, the movement eventually disbanded amidst controversy, and Brain’s recent legal troubles cast a shadow over its legacy.

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