Faith
Church Faces Spiritual Abuse After Justice Served
Faith Facts
- Chris Brain, former leader of the Nine O’Clock Service, was convicted of 17 counts of indecent assault against nine women.
- The case highlighted the dangers of spiritual abuse in religious communities, where coercion and control masquerade as spiritual authority.
- The Church of England defines spiritual abuse as a systematic pattern of coercive and controlling behavior in a religious context.
Recent events have shed light on the importance of confronting abuses of power within the Church. Chris Brain’s conviction for indecent assault underscores the need for accountability and vigilance to protect congregants from harm.
The Nine O’Clock Service, previously a lively evangelical congregation, became a setting where women suffered both physical and spiritual abuse under Brain’s control.
Witnesses at trial described a culture of manipulation, isolation from families, financial exploitation, and psychological pressure mimicking spiritual authority.
“I thought if I questioned it, I wasn’t being a good Christian. I had been controlled – psychologically, spiritually, emotionally. You’re not allowed to question because he represented God.”
The Church of England’s safeguarding manual now addresses spiritual abuse, emphasizing the use of scripture and pastoral authority to justify or enable such behavior.
Bishop Pete Wilcox recognized the severity of these abuses, and an independent Safeguarding Practice Review aims to ensure future protection for all members of the faith community.
As believers, we must remain watchful against those who would misuse spiritual leadership, upholding biblical values of truth, justice, and genuine care for the vulnerable.
Stay informed and help foster a culture of accountability rooted in faith and freedom: