Former Evangelical Leader Accused of Decades of Sexual Assault Within ‘Cult-Like’ Church

A former evangelical church leader stands accused of sexually assaulting a “staggering number” of women over a 14-year period, a court heard this week, exposing allegations of systematic abuse of power within the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) in Sheffield, England. Chris Brain, 68, the former head of the church, is on trial facing one count of rape and 36 counts of indecent assault allegedly committed between 1981 and 1995.

The case, unfolding at Inner London Crown Court, paints a disturbing picture of a church that initially presented itself as a progressive force for good but ultimately devolved into a closed and controlled environment where Brain allegedly exploited his position to abuse vulnerable women. Prosecutors allege that Brain, formerly an ordained priest, leveraged his authority to commit the offenses.

From Vibrant Services to Allegations of Control

The Nine O’Clock Service, popular in the 1980s and 1990s, initially attracted younger congregants with its unconventional approach to worship. Services, held at 9 p.m. on Sundays, featured multimedia presentations, live music, and, notably, women dressed in revealing clothing. Prosecutor Tim Clark KC described the group as a “success story” in its early days, actively involved in the local community and environmental causes.

However, the prosecution contends that this outward image masked a darker reality. “In truth, NOS became a closed and controlled group which the defendant dominated and abused his position…to sexually assault a staggering number of women from his congregation,” Clark stated. The church’s structure, with vetted new members organized into “Discipleship Groups,” fostered a highly disciplined and professional atmosphere, but also one ripe for manipulation.

The ‘Lycra Nuns’ and a Culture of Isolation

The alleged control extended to the personal lives of members, with encouragement to sever ties with family and friends. This isolation, prosecutors argue, created an environment of fear, where women were “terrified” of being excluded. Financial contributions were also significant, with some members reportedly relinquishing inheritances or even their homes.

Adding to the unsettling details, the court heard about a team of women known as “the Lycra Lovelies” or “the Lycra Nuns.” These women, described as “attractive” and wearing revealing clothing, were tasked with maintaining Brain’s home and attending to his family’s needs. One “founder member” of this team reportedly viewed Brain as “a form of prophet” and described a meticulous upkeep of his residence.

Parallels to Extremist Groups and a Denied ‘Cult’ Label

The extent of Brain’s control prompted comparisons to more notorious groups. When a member questioned the difference between NOS and the Branch Davidians – the group involved in the 1993 Waco, Texas siege – Brain allegedly responded that he was “accountable” to the Church of England.

Despite the allegations of manipulation and control, Brain maintains that NOS was not a cult. Following his arrest in April 2021, he reportedly told police that members were free to come and go as they pleased. However, prosecutors argue that this claim belies the reality of the situation, emphasizing the intense fear of ostracization experienced by members.

Allegations of Assault and a ‘Predator in Plain Sight’

The prosecution presented harrowing accounts of alleged assaults, including incidents following a murder mystery party and while assisting families affected by the Hillsborough disaster, a 1989 stadium tragedy. While Brain admits to occasional “cuddles” with the complainants, he denies any sexual intent.

One alleged victim described Brain as a “predator hiding in plain sight,” who targeted women he perceived as vulnerable. Prosecutors assert that the women lacked the capacity to consent due to the “cult-like domineering nature” of Brain’s control. When confronted with allegations of abusing up to 40 women, Brain reportedly responded, “I thought it was more.”

Defense Claims Consensual Activity

The defense appears to be arguing that any sexual activity was consensual, echoing a famous line from the film The Life of Brian with the assertion that Brain is “not the Messiah, he’s just a very naughty boy.” Prosecutors, however, contend that Brain created an atmosphere that enabled abuse.

Judge Freya Newbury cautioned the jury of nine men and three women that the evidence presented may be deeply disturbing, urging them to remain objective throughout the eight-week trial. The case continues, promising a detailed examination of the alleged abuses of power and the lasting impact on the women who claim to have been victimized.

The Role of Control: Examining the Dynamics of Coercive Control

The allegations against Chris Brain and the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) highlight a phenomenon known as coercive control, a pattern of behavior designed to dominate and isolate a person. This form of abuse, distinct from physical violence, focuses on manipulating a victim’s perception of reality and restricting their autonomy. The prosecution’s claim that Brain exploited his “role” as a religious leader to exert this control raises critical questions about power dynamics within hierarchical organizations.

As the trial unfolds, understanding the specifics of coercive control is crucial to fully comprehend the alleged abuse. It encompasses a range of tactics designed to strip away a person’s sense of self and agency. These methods may include isolation, emotional manipulation, degradation, and financial control, all designed to make the victim dependent on the abuser. Coercive control is, at its core, an attempt to seize control of one’s victim’s very existence, as the prosecution argues in the Brain case.

Identifying the Tactics of Coercive Control

Although coercive control can manifest differently in various settings, some common tactics are often employed:

Isolation: Severing ties with friends, family, and support networks. This aligns with the accusations about NOS encouraging members to distance themselves from loved ones.
Economic control: Controlling access to money, limiting employment opportunities, or demanding financial contributions. The reports of members relinquishing inheritances and homes relate directly to accusations of economic control.
Emotional Abuse: Constant criticism, belittling or gaslighting, which can damage self-worth.
Monitoring: Checking phones,emails,and communications to create a sense of surveillance.
Rules and Regulations: Implementing strict rules and expectations to control behavior and decision-making.

The Impact of Coercive Control

the effects of coercive control can be devastating and long-lasting.. Victims frequently enough experience:

Mental health issues: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common.
Erosion of self-esteem: Constant criticism and manipulation can undermine a victim’s belief in their abilities.
Difficulty forming relationships: past trauma can damage a victim’s ability to trust others.
Difficulty escaping: the fear of the abuser, financial dependence and isolation can make it incredibly difficult to leave.

Coercive Control and Religious Institutions

The allegations against Brain and the structure of NOS echo concerns about coercive control tactics utilized in religious settings. Leaders can exploit their positions of authority to manipulate and control their followers. The promise of spiritual guidance, a sense of belonging, and even salvation creates a vulnerable surroundings susceptible to exploitation.

In cults and other groups with strong leadership,the leader often plays a “role” in perpetuating control by presenting themselves as the sole source of truth and guidance. Disobedience may then be framed as betraying God. When accusations of abuse surface, the control mechanisms can often be used to silence or discredit victims.

Seeking Help and Resources

Individuals who have experienced coercive control may believe they can’t escape. Know that help is available. Organizations such as domestic abuse support services in the UK, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline in the US, offer confidential support and resources. Therapy, particularly trauma-informed therapy, is vital to dealing with the long term effects.

The ongoing events surrounding the NOS trial provides an prospect to acknowledge the complexities of coercive control, and to support survivors of abuse. This also includes the importance of critical thinking and awareness within any group or setting in which an individual assumes duty for a person’s well-being, whether that “role” is religious, professional, or personal.

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