Father John Perry
We are pleased to announce Father John Perry as the 2023 Magis Award Recipient for Ingenuity and Innovation. With his diverse and impactful career spanning continents, he has made significant contributions to the fields of education, theology, bioethics, and humanitarian work.
Fr. Perry embarked on his journey with the Jesuits at the young age of 18 in Guelph, Ontario. His academic pursuits led him to the University of Guelph, where he earned a double honors degree in English and Philosophy. Afterwards, he began a remarkable chapter in his life, teaching at St. Joseph's College in Darjeeling, India, and later venturing into the mystical Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan.
"My experiences in Bhutan were eye-opening and transformative,” said Fr. Perry. “From the remote hamlets of eastern Bhutan to the schools I served in, it became evident that understanding diverse cultures and their unique needs is vital. I learned the importance of not imposing our beliefs on others and the value of truly listening to the people we aim to help. Bhutan taught me that compassion and practical assistance go a long way in making the world a better place."
His dedication to education extended throughout his career, as he immersed himself in the Bhutanese school system and took on the role of a high school administrator. As political turmoil in Bhutan forced him to alter his course, he returning to Canada and further honed his academic pursuits earning a doctorate in Moral Theology.
With a profound understanding of ethical principles, Fr. Perry transitioned to the realm of bioethics where he taught and shared his experiences in various Canadian cities. His inquisitive mind and keen sense of justice led him to participate in a post-civil war Jesuit education project in Liberia, where he spent six years just outside of Monrovia in Caldwell.
In addition to teaching at the University of Liberia, Fr. Perry would go out to villages and show people how to lessen their exposure to the Ebola virus which had impacted the area at the time.
"Providing practical help in the form of clear, actionable guidance and essential resources is of utmost importance,” explained Fr. Perry. “Whether it's educating communities about disease prevention, offering tangible assistance, or supporting those in need, such efforts can lead to significant positive change, especially in challenging situations like dealing with diseases such as Ebola."
Fr. Perry's passion for social justice and ethical inquiry has led him to publish several impactful books on a diverse array of topics, ranging from genetically modified plants to the dark history of slavery and torture. His work also delves into truth commissions in Africa, nuclear weapon production, and their impact on the environment.
Notably, Fr. Perry is a founding member of Quixote House, a commendable initiative that partners with Future Hope to assist recent parolees from Stony Mountain Institution and Rockwood Correctional Institution in their transition and reintegration into the community. His compassionate presence, non-judgmental listening, and unwavering commitment to the Next Step Thursday meetings at Future Hope have made a significant impact on the lives of those he interacts with.
Fr. Perry's tireless dedication to education has touched the lives of many across the globe. His lifelong commitment to these principles and his innovative contributions to various fields make him a truly deserving recipient of the 2023 Magis Award for Ingenuity and Innovation.
