Inspiration for Recovery House of Central Florida, Inc.

       "If you trust in Christ, you will find a new beginning."

Our Founder John Hagan is inspired by the amazing story of Matt Talbot.                                Matt Talbot (1856-1925) was born in the poverty of Dublin Ireland's inner city. He began drinking at twelve years of age and became a chronic alcoholic. It was the drug culture of the 19th century. matt was an addict. After 16 years he decided to 'kick the habit". A priest helped him, giving him a rehabilitation program, which providentially incorporated the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. That was 50 years before AA was founded. after a horrible struggle, Matt found sobriety through prayer and self sacrifice. His higher power was the Christian God. He remained sober for 40 years until his death. His story has been an inspiration for alcoholics and addicts throughout the world. He is a candidate for canonization in the Catholic Church.

Matt Talbot was declared Venerable in 1973 which means that from a human point of view, he has the qualifications of a Saint. The Holy Father believes that Matt Talbot has been chosen by God as a model for addicts. He was a recovered alcoholic. It is now known that the rehabilitation program given to him in 1884 incorporated the 12 step program of Alcoholics Anonymous, although these steps were not formulated for another 50 years.

For more information about Matt Talbot and Retreat information check his website:        www.matt-talbot.com