James F. Perra

I didn’t realize what was happening at the time, but in his playful and quiet way Professor Bailey was one of a handful of instructors who nudged me to explore how my spiritual life, my feelings about social justice, and my education could all challenge and inform each other.

We went to the same church while I was at MSU, but I always attended a different service. One night we bumped into each other at an anti-war demonstration along Grand River avenue. He looked at me and said “You’re an Episcopalian right?” to which I nodded yes.

Prof. Bailey then began to loudly sing the Taize’ setting of “Dona Nobis Pacem” (roughly “God give us your peace”) and, knowing that we sung it a lot at All Saints he stared at me, singing and smiling, until I started to sing along. Before long there were a few dozen of us, probably representing a variety of beliefs about God, carrying our signs and singing together a prayer for peace.

I often meant to reach out to him and thank him for the part he has played in my life. I guess he knows now. Rest in peace sir, and may light perpetual shine upon you.