Former Sheffield cult leader Chris Brain convicted of rape and sexual assaults

Chris Brain, once celebrated as the Church of England’s “golden boy” for his high-energy Nine O'Clock Service in Sheffield, was convicted of one rape and four sexual assaults relating to three former congregants. Prosecutors described how Brain turned the vibrant, nightclub-style worship gatherings into a closed cult, coercing young women—often scantily dressed—to obey his demands, including giving him massages at his home.

Victims said they felt compelled to comply because of his perceived divine authority, and some were forced to surrender wages or even sell property for the group. The jury also noted his prior convictions for 17 indecent-assault offences against nine women. Judge Freya Newbery will determine his sentence at a future hearing. Brain denied the allegations, claiming any sexual activity was consensual or did not occur.