Matt Talbot, born in Dublin Ireland on May 2, 1856, is considered the patron of those in recovery, struggling with alcoholism and addiction. At age 15, Matt worked as a messenger for liquor merchants, and became an alcoholic, drinking excessively for the next 15 years.
One day he decided to make a general confession, ceased drinking, and attended daily Mass. There is evidence that Matt’s first seven years after taking this pledge were especially difficult.
Avoiding his former drinking places was challenging, and he began to pray as intensely as he used to drink, making retributions to those from whom he had borrowed or stolen money.
When he joined the Secular Franciscan Order, he began a life of strict penance, abstaining from meat nine months a year.
He spent his nights reading Scripture, the lives of the saints, and praying the rosary. Though his job did not make him wealthy, Matt contributed generously to the missions. After 1923, Matt’s health failed, and he was forced to quit work.
He died June 7, 1925, Trinity Sunday, on his way to church. Fifty years later, Pope Paul VI declared Matt Talbot venerable. His liturgical feast is celebrated on June 19.
