(Photo: BBC Everyman)
Amidst unresolved allegations, Chris Brain is set to face a retrial on charges including indecent assault and rape, after a jury was unable to reach a consensus. Brain, who rose to prominence as the leader of the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) in Sheffield, continues to deny all accusations.
Founded in 1986 by Brain, NOS aimed to engage young audiences through a mix of live music and multimedia presentations, drawing significant crowds during its peak years. However, the service was discontinued in 1995 following accusations of sexual abuse.
Recently, Brain, now 68, was convicted of 17 counts of indecent assault involving nine women, though he was cleared of 15 other similar charges. The retrial, scheduled for September next year, pertains to further alleged assaults on women associated with NOS.
During the initial court proceedings, claims surfaced that Brain exploited his authoritative role to target women in the congregation. One woman recounted an assault following her involvement in identifying victims from the 1989 Hillsborough disaster.
Prosecutors portrayed NOS as having evolved into a “cult,” with a significant number of women reportedly victimized. Brain countered these allegations, asserting that all sexual interactions within the NOS were consensual.
In response to the trial’s outcome, Bishop of Sheffield, Pete Wilcox, expressed his remorse: “As Bishop of Sheffield, I want to speak directly to the survivors, their families and friends, and to everyone affected by these events. I am deeply sorry for the harm you have suffered.”
He continued, acknowledging the complexity of the verdict: “I recognise that a mixed verdict can be profoundly painful: for some it may bring a measure of justice and relief, and for others it will feel incomplete, confusing, or retraumatising. Those reactions are understandable and I am truly sorry for the continued hurt this brings.”
He further emphasized the church’s accountability, stating, “What happened was an appalling abuse of power and leadership that should never have occurred. Where concerns were raised in the past and were not acted upon properly, that was a failing of the Church. For those institutional failures I offer an unreserved apology.”
The Diocese remains committed to offering support and is cooperating with law enforcement and other authorities in the matter.
Those in need of assistance or with information are encouraged to contact the Diocese of Sheffield Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@sheffield.anglican.org or visit: sheffield.anglican.org/safeguarding or access independent support here: sheffdio.org/nossupport
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
