12 December 1933 – 20 August 2021
Bioethics pioneer Rev Dr Walter Black MSC will be remembered for having lived a life marked by deep faith, intellectual brilliance, and a profound commitment to the Church’s mission.
Rev Dr Walter Black passed away peacefully on 20 August 2021 at the Little Sisters of the Poor Aged Care facility in Glendalough, at the age of 87.
Born 12 December 1933, the third son of William and Bride Black, both now deceased, Walter was one of eight siblings.
Predeceased by his brothers Adrian and Bill, he is survived by his siblings Marianne Crowe, Joe, Bride Schaefer, Gavan, Peter, and Helen Grundy, along with his 43 nieces and nephews.
The family is particularly grateful for the compassionate care provided by his niece, Elizabeth Teakle (Crowe).
Fr Walter studied for the priesthood in Melbourne as a Missionary of the Sacred Heart and was ordained in 1959. He then furthered his education at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, where he earned a Doctorate in Philosophy and a Licentiate in Philosophy.
His academic excellence was recognised with a Papal Gold Medal Benemerenti, awarded for achieving first place in his University.
Upon returning to Australia, Fr Walter embarked on a distinguished academic career. From 1963-1967 he served as a Lecturer in Philosophy at Sacred Heart Monastery in Canberra, where he began to impart his deep understanding of Catholic philosophy.
Between 1968-1971, he continued his teaching ministry as a lecturer in Philosophy and Moral Theology at Sacred Heart Monastery in Croydon, contributing to the formation of future priests and religious.
In 1972, he was appointed as a lecturer in Philosophy and Moral Theology at the Consortium of Religious Orders in Box Hill, where he continued to educate and inspire.
In 1973, Fr Walter returned to Sacred Heart Monastery in Croydon, where he resumed his role as Lecturer in Philosophy and Moral Theology.
From 1974-1975, Fr Walter presented renewal programs to religious and clergy, offering guidance and spiritual renewal during a time of significant change in the Church following Vatican II.
In 1979, he was appointed as Personal Secretary to the Superior General of the Missionary of the Sacred Heart Order in Rome, a role that allowed him to serve the global Church at the highest level.
In 1986, he was appointed Director of the L J Goody Bioethics Centre in Perth, a position he held until 2003. Under his leadership, the Centre became a vital resource for the Church, government, and educational institutions, providing expert guidance on clinical and research ethics. His contributions to the field of bioethics in Australia are immeasurable, and he played a key role in guiding Catholic health care institutions through times of profound change.
He was a founding chaplain to the Catholic Doctors Association and worked closely with prominent figures in the medical community, such as the late Prof Michael Quinlan and Prof Con Michael.
He also served as a Consultor to the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, a member of the Board of Theology at Notre Dame University in Western Australia, and participated in numerous ethics committees for Catholic hospitals across Australia.
In 2004, Fr Walter continued his service to the L J Goody Bioethics Centre as a Senior Consultant, providing his expertise and support to the community he loved.
In December of that year, in recognition of his many contributions, the library at the Centre was named the Walter Black Library in his honour.
Fr Walter’s impact extended beyond bioethics, having been instrumental in assisting religious institutes and other organisations in Australia and the Pacific to adapt to the changes brought about by Vatican II. His wisdom and guidance were sought by many, and his mentorship left an indelible mark on countless individuals and groups.
Fr Walter’s life was celebrated with a Funeral Mass at St Kieran’s Catholic Church on 2 September 2021, celebrated by Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, who honoured Father Walter’s profound contributions to the Church and the community.