Michael Arnold Perry

Michael Arnold Perry (1942–1996) was an English Anglican priest, hymn writer, editor, and worship-resource writer closely associated with Jubilate Hymns. Born in Beckenham, Kent, he was educated at Dulwich College and studied at University College London, Oak Hill Theological College, Ridley Hall, Cambridge, and the University of Southampton. He was ordained in the Church of England and served in parish ministry at St Helens, Bitterne, Eversley, and Tonbridge. While at Eversley he also worked as chaplain and lecturer at the national Police Staff College at Bramshill.

Perry became honorary Editorial Secretary and Company Secretary of Jubilate Hymns in 1982 and helped edit many of its hymn, psalm, carol, and worship publications. He was elected to the Church of England General Synod and later became chairman of the Church Pastoral Aid Society. His writing combined strong biblical engagement with language intended for congregational use. Among his widely circulated texts are the Calypso Carol, “O God Beyond All Praising,” “Blessed Be the God of Israel,” and “Heal Me, Hands of Jesus.” His work as both writer and editor placed him among the important contributors to late-twentieth-century British evangelical hymnody.