Overview

• A 2021 Barnardo’s inquiry commissioned by the Diocese of Sheffield found that Drapper’s “Encounter God” session was a form of exorcism intended to alter his sexual identity.
• Drapper accepted a five-figure out-of-court settlement from St Thomas Philadelphia, believed to be the first damages award for harm caused by conversion or exorcism practices.
• St Thomas Philadelphia issued a formal apology, acknowledging that the parish failed to safeguard Drapper during the 2014 session.
• Drapper said the exorcism left him depressed, led to suicidal thoughts and severed his connection to Christianity.
• The UK government is advancing legislation to outlaw all forms of conversion therapy, including faith-based exorcism rituals.