Ireland: Podcast series on addiction discusses impact of Matt Talbot

Source: Irish Catholic Media Office

Episode two of the 'Leave Your Mark' podcast is now available focusing on the issue of addiction. The Irish Bishops' Drugs Initiative (IBDI) launched the 'Leave Your Mark' podcast series in February 2022. The podcast features profile interviews with sports stars and community leaders telling their stories of how they left their mark on the world and rose above their struggles with addiction.

In episode two, Darren Butler and Michael Murphy discuss the Venerable Matt Talbot, and the impact of the Matt Talbot Addiction Recovery Group from Collon, County Louth. Michael speaks of his alcohol addiction and how Matt Talbot was central to his recovery. Darren is also joined by Deacon John Taaffe to discuss his experience of working with people in addiction and how faith plays a crucial part in recovery.

Speaking about the podcast series, Bishop Michael Router of the IBDI said: "Addiction is a frightening aspect of life in Ireland today. The rise in the abuse of drugs and alcohol is well documented and many parents, families and communities have suffered and are struggling to respond.

"This series of podcasts and videos produced by the Irish Bishop's Drugs Initiative will help to highlight the problems that exist, and how those who have struggled with addiction have overcome their challenges. It will provide guidance and hope to people that there is a way out of addiction and that there are services to turn to when needed."

Bishop Michael Router is Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh and is liaison bishop for the IBDI. The Initiative is the pastoral response of the Bishops' Conference to assist parish communities in raising awareness and developing an informed outreach to help address the issue of drugs and alcohol at a local level. To achieve its objective, the IBDI provides bespoke information, education and training, as well as offering alternative activities to avoid substance misuse. The IBDI has met the challenges Covid-19 has presented by moving where possible to an online facilitation service. This initiative has seen programmes facilitated directly to schools remotely and recordings sent to those who could not facilitate the online service.

The podcast content is used as a resource for schools and community groups as part of a 'Healthy Life Style' programme offered by the IBDI.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Z4oa9DddN3XAcBGCTLqcQ?si=NuWux05mQJ-hMp3i_kWzQA
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/leave-your-mark-podcast/id1610731424?i=1000566943877