Good afternoon,
In May 2020, Nathan Brown died under deeply troubling and unusual circumstances. His death was initially investigated by the Queensland Coroner, but the findings were provided only to Nathan’s parents, both members of the Brisbane Christian Fellowship (BCF). Other close family members—deeply concerned about the circumstances—say their requests for information have been ignored.
These family members suspect that Nathan’s death may have been linked to coercive and potentially abusive conduct by individuals within the Christian Fellowship Organisation (CFO).
You can read our earlier reporting on Nathan’s story here: https://samsonrising.com.au/nathan-browns-story
Push to Reopen the Coroner’s Inquiry
Under Queensland law, close family members or representatives of the public interest are entitled to request a copy of the Coroner’s findings. We are actively working to obtain this document.
Our independent investigation has uncovered compelling new evidence, including witness accounts that shed light on the months leading up to Nathan’s death. Witnesses have described what they perceived as a culture of intense psychological pressure within the CFO. Witnesses also say after years of expressing the wish to leave the CFO, at the age 28 Nathan fled his family home and remained in hiding until his death six months later.
Following recent discussions with the Coroner’s office, we have been encouraged to submit an application to reopen the investigation. While we are legally constrained from disclosing specific details at this time, our submission will include multiple witness statements and newly surfaced documents.
Let Nathan’s Voice Be Heard
This is not only about Nathan. We believe it is in the public interest to investigate whether his experience reflects a broader pattern of systemic harm within the CFO and the potential risk it poses to current and former members of the organisation.
Given Ivan Matthews oversaw the Sunday School program at the time, we are seeking clarity as to whether there was any direct contact between Nathan and Ivan Matthews during his childhood. We are told Ivan Matthews was subsequently convicted of paedophilia. Relevantly, in the weeks before his death in October 2023, Ivan handed over a disturbing folio of documents and photographs to one of our team members.
One of those photos, depicts Nathan appearing visibly distressed, according to some family members, while the other children in the photo are smiling. We have obscured their faces to protect their privacy—but the contrast is striking.
Could Manslaughter Charges Follow?
Should the Coroner conclude that coercive control significantly contributed to Nathan’s death, there is a possibility that the matter may be referred to Queensland Police. Legal experts advise that charges could be considered if individuals are identified as being responsible.
Witness Testimonies and Community Support
Three individuals are currently preparing formal statements for submission to the Coroner, and just today, another witness has come forward. We welcome these courageous contributions and continue to encourage others to speak out—whether anonymously or otherwise—for a confidential, off-the-record discussion.
Of the 221 survey participants who reported involvement in the young adults program, 185 (84%) indicated that they found the program harmful. This highlights the importance of today’s announcement, which presents an unprecedented opportunity for those who feel they were abused as children or young adults to be heard.
As with all our efforts, the strength of the case we present to the Coroner will rely heavily on the quality and consistency of witness testimony. If you—or someone you know—have experienced similar treatment within the CFO, your voice is vital. Now, more than ever, it deserves to be heard.
Managing Expectations & Upholding Due Process
We acknowledge that the legal process takes time and commitment. Please be patient as we continue this work—legal processes are often slow, but they matter. We remain fully dedicated to pursuing justice for Nathan and others affected.
Importantly, we remind readers that no individual has been found guilty of wrongdoing at this stage. We uphold the presumption of innocence until legal proceedings are complete. We believe the publication of this article is in the public interest and the pursuit of lawful accountability.
Progress of the Samson Rising Investigations
Anonymous Surveys:
We have now received 301 anonymous online survey submissions.
➤ View survey results: https://samsonrising.com.au/survey-results/
➤ Participate here: https://samsonrising.com.au/online-survey/
Complaints to Authorities:
41 detailed witness complaints have been submitted to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). Additionally, 1,341 people have signed petitions urging an official investigation into the CFO.]
➤ Sign the petition: https://www.change.org/p/support-investigations…
Parliamentary Engagement:
We have now commenced engagement with members of Parliament. Two formal meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks.
A Federal MP from Victoria is hosting a group meeting for alleged victims. If you wish to attend, please email: sa************@***il.com
A senior Federal Senator has requested a full briefing from our team.
Parliamentary Inquiry into Cults:
Our submission to the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into the impact of cults is underway. It includes powerful statistics derived from the complaints we’ve collected—statistics that, in our view, point to a systemic disregard for Australian law and public accountability.
Final Word
All of us at Samson Rising remain committed to shining a light on injustice. The momentum is building and we feel the winds of change beginning to stir.
We are deeply grateful for your support, your courage, and your belief in a better future. Please follow our updates on Facebook and Instagram, and share this message widely.
Together, we will continue the hard work of seeking truth and justice for Nathan and for all those still waiting to be heard.
On behalf of the team,
Samson
