Ex-priest Chris Brain convicted

A former leader of a Sheffield church group has been found guilty of indecent assaults against nine women, with additional charges still to be decided.

Ex-priest Chris Brain convicted on 17 counts of indecent assault

At Inner London Crown Court, Chris Brain, now 68, was found guilty of 17 indecent assaults against nine women who were members of the Nine O Clock Service NOS. He led the group in the 1980s and 1990s. Brain was convicted on 17 counts and cleared on 15 others. Jurors are still deliberating on four counts of indecent assault and one count of rape. Brain wore a black suit and tie and showed no emotion as the verdicts were read. Prosecutors described a homebase team that cared for Brain and his family, and witnesses testified about a group known as the Lycra lovelies or Lycra nuns who performed household chores and sexual favors.

Analysts see this case as part of a broader pattern where charismatic leaders attract followers and concentrate power. When safeguarding is diffuse, accountability can be weak. The verdict shows there is legal accountability for leaders who abuse their position. It also highlights the need for clear safeguarding rules, independent oversight, and survivor centered processes within church movements.

Survivors voices matter, and reforms in governance could prevent future harm. The case may push faith groups to review recruitment, governance, and how warnings are handled. Local communities will judge how the Church of England and related bodies respond and whether this signals a shift toward transparency and responsibility.

Highlights

The road to reform in faith groups will continue beyond this verdict.