Aka: Sobriety, Alcohol Addiction, Drunks, Alcohol Abuse
Alcoholics deal with alcohol use disorder, a form of addiction and chronic and progressive disease characterized by a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. People who struggle with alcoholism often experience intense cravings for alcohol, difficulty controlling their drinking, and negative consequences as a result of their drinking. They might also experience physical symptoms such as tremors, sweating, and nausea when they stop drinking, which can make it difficult to quit on their own.
Alcoholism can have a significant impact on an individual's physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to liver disease, heart disease, and neurological damage, among other health problems. It also commonly leads to difficult relationships, financial difficulties, and legal problems.
Some common signs that someone may be struggling with alcoholism include: drinking alone or in secret, drinking in spite of negative consequences, difficulty controlling or stopping drinking, drinking in the morning regularly, needing to drink larger amounts of alcohol to achieve the desired effect, neglecting responsibilities or important activities, and engaging in risky or dangerous behavior while under the influence of alcohol.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, it's important to seek professional help from a medical provider or addiction specialist. Treatment for alcoholics typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support groups to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety. Prayer is also a very important part of overcoming alcoholism because it can give the person strength to persevere and many of the underlying issues causing the problem are spiritual battles.
Who is the Patron Saint of Alcoholics
The most well-known Patron Saint of Alcoholics is likely the Venerable Matt Talbot. However, there are some other options to solicit for intervention. Those saints are St. Monica and St. Matthias the Apostle. You may also want to look to the Saints of Healing as well for their intercessory powers.
Venerable Matt Talbot, was one of twelve children born into a poor family in Ireland. His father was a heavy drinker who couldn’t provide for his family, so they moved from place to place. Matt got a job as a delivery boy with a beer bottling company at the age of 12. By the time he was 16, he was a confirmed alcoholic like his father. Talbot struggled with alcoholism for almost 16 years, and his addiction led him to neglect his family and work.
However, in 1884, he experienced a moment of spiritual awakening and decided to become sober. Talbot credited his recovery to his deep faith and devotion to God, which helped him resist the temptation to drink and live a life of sobriety. He lived a simple and humble life, working as a laborer and devoting much of his time to prayer and acts of charity. He became known for his piety and his dedication to helping others, especially those struggling with alcoholism.
After his death in 1925, many people began to view Talbot as a symbol of hope and inspiration for those seeking recovery from addiction. They look to him now as a role model and intercessor, praying to him for strength and guidance on their journey to sobriety.
St. Monica is most well known for her perseverance in prayer for her son, St. Augustine of Hippo, but many don’t know the story of her youth. She was often sent down to the cellar to draw wine for the family and fell into the habit of taking sips while down there. She developed such a desire for wine that before long she was drinking as much as she could whenever the chance presented itself. One day a family slave caught her and called her out for it. She was so ashamed for what she had become that she gave up the habit. She was later baptized and led a life of impeccable virtue.
St. Matthias was the apostle who replaced Judas Iscariot, the betrayer of Jesus who had taken his own life. He was sent out to preach the Gospel after Jesus’ Ascension. He insisted on the need to mortify the desires of the flesh in order to experience the peace and joy of the Spirit. He preached that the Holy Spirit would empower people to exercise self-control over their unhealthy physical desires so that they can experience good health in their body and soul. For that reason, Saint Matthias is the patron of all who struggle with the addiction of alcoholism.
Click here for our list of Patron Saints.
Prayers for Alcoholics
Matt Talbot Prayer
Lord, you give us the example of Venerable Matt Talbot as a man who seemed completely lost and beyond your grace. In a single moment, you pierced his heart and changed his mind, leading him back to you. Jesus, I pray for this same conversion and transformation for (Mention Name Here) in your perfect will and timing and for your greater glory. Amen.
A Prayer to St. Monica
Dear St. Monica, troubled wife and mother, many sorrows pierced your heart during your lifetime. Yet you never despaired or lost faith. With confidence, persistence and profound faith,
you prayed daily for the conversion of your beloved husband, Patricius, and your beloved son, Augustine. Grant me that same fortitude, patience and trust in the Lord. Intercede for me, dear St. Monica, (Mention your request here…) and grant me the grace to accept his will in all things,
through Jesus Christ, our Lord, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Saint Monica Patron Saint of Alcoholics, pray for us. Amen.
Prayer of Healing for Alcoholics
O Glorious Saint Matthias, in God’s design it fell upon you to take the place of the unfortunate Judas who betrayed his Master. You were selected by the twofold sign of the uprightness of your life and the call of the Holy Spirit. Obtain for us the grace to practice the same uprightness of life and to be called by that same Spirit to wholehearted service of the Church.
Help us remember that Jesus chose you, like us, not for what you were but because of what you would become through His grace. Please help all who struggle with the addiction of alcoholism to experience this same grace and come to live in the serenity and joy of a life surrendered to God. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Related Patron Saint Jewelry and Rosaries
Buy some beautiful Matt Talbot, St. Monica and St. Matthias jewelry to keep you or your loved one close to the patron saint of alcoholics and be a symbol of your faith.