Trustworthy, reliable...strong, stable and confident. That's always been important to me when I consider anyone in the program. I've been in and out of the program since I was 12 in 1974. I was a daily drinker at age 14.

I was first exposed to Father Martin in the late '70's, (I think!). I'm sure that as I was in and out of treatment in the '80's, Father Martin was an integral piece of the nurturing process that eventually lead to my sobriety (this time, so far) since May 13, 1991.

I spent many years in the music business, drunk and more. I only remember what God has a reason for me to remember from those years! The fact is, I met and/or drank with many a "celebrity". It came with the territory.

My point is, as I look back at my life, and I often do, for now I am a Masters level Counselor in the field of Addictions, I recall Father Joseph Martin as an inspiration far outshining any "rock-star" or celebrity I met. As were those anonymous men and women in the program who kept a steady, strong pace in their recovery. Those who stayed with it, the winners, are who my true idols are! Father Martin is at the top of that list.

He has been a part of my entire life it seems. I think he shall always be. He continues to inspire through his films. I love to show "Chalk-Talk" to my clients! He continues to inspire hope to my heart, as I fondly and gratefully recall his sincere voice and kind face through those films.

I think a great man of love has left this world. He will be greatly, greatly missed. - Kelly B.

I started working with my father, Dr. Gordon Bell, in addiction medicine in 1971. He died a few years ago at the age of 94. He travelled to Guest House from Canada for many years in the 60's and 70's to give talks on addiction and recovery. He and Father Joe were were like kindred spirits with their gentle manner, the twinkle in their eyes, and their dedication to helping individuals find recovery. Both were very bring too.

Father Joe took his personal experiences and turned them into a legacy for others to carry the torch. It is now up to us.

Blessings Joe, say hi to my dad for me. - Linda Bell

I grew up in an addicted household and never thought I would someday be working with addicts and alcoholics; but I am. Father Martin's videos have not only inspired me to keep fighting with and for those suffering, but also for our many clients to keep up the fight as well. I loved his sense of humor and his compassionate approach to life. He has touched millions and will continue to do so. It is his legacy. God Bless you all. - Wendi

Your work has inspired a generation and you will be sorely missed. I have the Chalk Talk and many other training videos that fill my shelve with love as you so freely gave. You are the epitomy of love and I look forward to your teachings and lessons from above. RIP. God was waiting. - Monique H.

I am so very fortunate to have had two "Spiritual Fathers" in my life. The first was my father-in-law, who is the bedrock of my Faith. The second, but by no means "second" in my life was Father Martin who, along with AA, are the bedrock of my sobriety. By the grace of God, and the teachings of AA and Father Martin, I have been blessed to play a small part in many other peoples sobriety. I met Father Martin in 1983, when I was stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground. I have no doubt that God sent me there so that I could learn my craft at the foot of the Master. From the moment I met him, and to the moment of my physical death, he will be an inspiration to me. I can only strive to continue to live my life the best that I can, so that I might be with him again in Heaven. - Barney Kennedy

I was first introduced to Father Martin when I went to the Navy Drug and alcohol school to become a counselor. It did not take me lont to recognize the message this great man had to offer. It has been an intricate part of my helping others for the 19 years I have had the privilidge of working in this field.
I have made the statemetn many times, "if I become half the speaker this man is, I will have acomplished something in my life."

May his passing be the blessing he has earned in his labors on earth. May he bo with GOD of his understanding and be at his place of honor next to the lord. Thank you lord for placing this man in my life and for the impact he had on my recovery as I impact others. - Michael A. Maxey

Father Martins "Chalk Talk" is the corner stone of my sobriety. He proved to me exactly what was going on inside this body of mine. he was always so happy and excited to be sober. - Doug B.

I had the pleasure of having dinner with Ft Martin a number of times. On a couple of occassion I had the privalage of hosting him at workshops and lectures.
In 1976 while stationed at Wiesbaden Germany my drinking then completely out of control. My wife at the time, had a real to real movie of Father Martin's "Chalk Talk" and sometimes she would show it to our children and I would wonder what this white haired priest was taking about.
In Dec 1976 I stopped drinking, a few months later, my life was in a mess, I seen no way out and could not drink. One night I seen "Chalk Talk" again and I knew there was some hope for me. I have not had a drink since then and every day I apply the principles he so eloquently described to a life beyond my comprehence back then. Today I try in someway to be available to another suffering alcoholic. I have had many "mentors" in my live. Father Martin was a mentor of mentors. - Jim Leonard

I am an alcoholic named Katie. I was introduced to Father Martin in a video called 'Chalk Talk,' and I am grateful to say that was 13yrs. 6 mos. ago and I am blessed. I was saddened to hear of his death, but in death we are born again! God Bless you Father Martin and thank you. Love and Respect. - Katie K.

I began my recovery from alcoholism in 1975 and was a flaming atheist. It was the Chalk Talks that forced me to review my jaded views. How could a man of God know so much about me if I didn't believe in God. Fr. Martin spoke to me as he did to millions of alcoholics and showed me that if I was to survive this illness I needed the tools of faith that he so humorously shared with the world. God Bless. - Kai J.

First of all, I want to express my condolences to the everyday friends and the family of Fr. Martin. The recovery world and indeed the whole world has lost one of the great men of our times. Fr. Martin will be remembered with reverence in Missouri. It is ironic for me that Fr. Martin's funeral service will be on my 30 year AA birthday. Fr. Martin and his love of the alcoholic has been a part of my life, both personal and professional since day one. Thirty years ago we had a lady named Millie M. in Shellbina, Mo. She has passed on several years ago. However, she took a van load of us to St. Louis to hear Fr. Martin speak. I can't remember exactly where, but after he spoke I got to meet him. He had been active in carrying the message to another priest in our area that was trying to get sober. He had the most gentle spirit I think I had ever felt. I didn't get to talk to him long, there were so many that wanted to meet him. However, that day I decided that I was going to be a Substance Abuse Counselor. Now, 30 years later my credential is that of a Certified Advance Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) which it the highest level of certification in Missouri. My lectures always include films of Fr. Martin, my strongest mentor. While I mourn the loss of him to the world, I know that the legacy he has left in the treatment profession and to those that knew him well will forever keep his memory alive. I am sorry that he has passed (actually, I guess I am a little envious of heaven because I know that he was direct entry) but am honored that he is being buried on my AA anniversary. What a neat thing with which God has blessed me. Love in Christ forever - Dennis Fishbeck.

Because of your wonderful inspiration I remain sober today and am able to give back to those that need help. I am a Chemical Dependency Counselor in Houston, Tx and have you in my thoughts many days. When I went to treatment in Havre De Grace, you would shout across the room while sitting at your usual table in the dining hall "How's my cowgirl from Texas"? I never understood how you were able to remember all of us (as there were about 70 clients at any given time). I just want you to know that your character and integrity has always stayed with me! You gave me the courage to find my purpose in life...

- Terri Tuttle

My sponsor in AA and I gave a showing of Father Martin's 'Chalk Talks' fim in 1981 in a small town in Alaska for the public....I remember that only one person came, a local EMT and I was so disappointed . My sponsor told me that 'we' had stayed sober and that was what mattered. That led the way into 12th Step work for me. I still quote things that Father Martin said in that film as well in other tapes I listened to and that made a big difference in my sobriety. I am sorry he passed, I will miss his message. - Brian K.

Part of me died with Fr. Martin, since our relationship goes back to those halycon, exciting days of my early sobriety when we fist met in 1961. Fr. Martin was several years ahead of me in sobriety, but was then already well known for his chalk talk in the Baltimore--Washington region. His talk was proof positive that he was not only a good student of his revered mentor, Austin Ripley, at Guest House, but also an exceptional educator. He never refused to come to a local group and give his chalk talk, if someone would come to pick him up. Thousands of us are his legacy. - Ernie R.

I am a recovering alcoholic/addict who, like so many, became an addictions counselor. In my many years of work I have relyed on Father Martin's videos to provide unique, wise, and heart-warming examples to addicts/alcoholics and their loved ones of what it truly means to be addicted and the remarkable and miraculous process of recovery. I am saddened by his death but, much more than this, very grateful for his life and his sharing with so many people. What an amazing legacy! I never got to meet him yet I feel as though I know him. I'm sure I'm not alone in this. He was a man who practiced the truth that "When we give with no expectation of anything in return that's when we receive the best that God has to offer"!--By the way, my favorite film clip is the story of the fighter pilot who was locked up in solitary confinement for years and developed the relationship with the mother rat and her children. It always broke me up when father Martin quoted the fighter pilot as saying, "You know how much God loved me? When that mother rat got pregnant again she came back to MY cell"! I thank God for his life and his legacy. - Robert T.

I first met Father Martin in January of 1986 at the Kerrville V.A. Hospital, in Kerrville Texas. He was one of the few videos we were allowed to watch. I was alone, I mean really alone. No more Wife, two Children, Home, Family members, Career/Job, Friends, Finances and most important my Spiritual connection. I was in the depths of my Alcoholic despair. But this jolly little Priest gave me a spark of hope that eventually raged into a form of energy that only Sobriety and the Grace of God can give (I view both as the same). Later on I was delighted to spend a day with Father Martin at La Hacienda Treatment Center and I was blessed to be his M.C. and guide. Today my wife and I are back at La Hacienda and loving every minute of it. I am 22 years sober, a licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor for 21 years and dedicated to serving my fellow man and woman suffering from the same dilemma that Father Joe and I experienced and much more in my community. In short, "When the Student is Ready the Teacher will appear"... I have shared this spiritual statement with thousands of people in all walks of life. Little do they know, In my world, each time I made this statement I have been making reference to one of the most inspiration men I have ever known - Father Joseph Martin. I will continue to carry your message of hope and inspiration till my time is at hand. - Bob Gartman

So sorry to hear of the passing of our friend Father Martin. My message is simple.Thank you for the message and wisdom you shared through your tapes and in person, whenever you came to London. Today I celebrate 32 years. Thank you and may you rest in peace - my friend. I once told you how I like to play your tapes at night, especially in my early days when my mind was in turmoil. You looked at me and smiled, then said, "I always knew my tapes were good for insomniacs." - Liam C.

"Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am sunlight on ripened grain, I am the autumn rain.
As you awaken in the morning hush, I am the swift uplifting rush
of birds circling in flight.
I am the stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep."
-Anonymous

I consider him GOD's salesman on sobriety. Heard him frequently in the 70's and 80's at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA and Cathedral City, CA. One special message from him was, "laughter is a symptom of Sobriety!"
He never said one single thing that I felt like arguing about and thats unusual for an alky like me!! He surely made a POSITIVE DIFFERENCE!! - Arne P.

I was three or four years sober when Father Martin came to our town for a lecture. I'll never forget how inspirational, funny, genuine, and caring he seemed in his talk. I lined up afterward to greet and thank him. When it came to be my turn, I stammered that I was a recovering psychiatrist. I most definitely expected the usual AA response, that of amusement, or patronizing tolerance of us "meddlers" and interlopers in AA. Instead, to my shock and amazement, he nearly shouted "fantastic!" and "what a blessing you will be!" I was initially stunned, but delighted. Since then I have come to realize that I had met one of the most positive and inspiring individuals of my lifetime. Since that day I have striven to imitate that enthusiasm and joyous encouragement with everyone I meet. Thank you, Father Martin. - Anonymous

Father Martin's Chalk Talks meant so much when I was in rehab in 1989... - Sandy S.

Father Martin gave me permission to be human, that it was alright not to have good thoughts all the time. He also was the first man to bring tears to my eyes and I realized then that I was in the presence of the spirit. I love him, I play his tapes all the time as he will forever be an inspiration to me. - Carl S.

I have been sober now for over 9 1/2 years. My first introduction to recovery was Father Martin. I was a hard core drinker. Fr. Martin's videos let me know that what I had was a disease. He gave me hope & let me know that I wasn't a waste of the good Lords time. Thank you. - Terri Nelson

I have been sober for twenty-six years. I will never forget what I heard on
one of Father Martins tapes when I came into the Fellowship, he said "gratitude is the hinge on which sobriety swings." I thank the God of my understanding everyday for my blessings and I keep that hinge well oiled. God bless him. - Herb H.

Father Martin has helped our guests of A Home Away Retreat Inc. through his messages of hope delivered in his numerous recorded talks. Our guests are assigned various film to watch and discuss; Father Martin has always been their 'favorite'. They love his humor, compassion, and insight. He will continue to be an important part of the program and life of recovery at A Home Away. In gratitude. - John Derry

I am a recovering alcoholic well into my third year and the one thing which stands out for me is Father Martin's talk on 'Feelings' which everyone in this world would benefit by watching. I have got to the stage where I don't have to remember the talk in every detail, but merely that it exists and whereas a few years ago it could take a week or more to calm down if something bugged me, as long as I remember that the talk exists then it is only a matter of minutes before I am on an even keel again and all without the need or desire for alcohol! Good luck to all of us. - Stuart B.

I would like to thank Fr. Martin for all his messages. Sometimes, I think I would not be 12 yrs sober if he hadn't made it easy for a drunk like me to understand. Thank you. 12/18/96 - Mark L.

While I was in rehab, we saw Father Martin's Chalk Talk and he helped me to understand that I was a sick person, not a bad person. When he explained about alcoholism I understood, I finally understood....That has been almost 20 years ago... My anniversary date is 3/30/1989...I will never, never forget that. It has stayed with me all these years...He will be greatly missed...Rest in Peace Father and thank you sooooo much for all you have helped over all these years to understand...like me...

-Beverly C.

I am so grateful to Father Martin, as a recovering alcoholic and priest. He is part of the reason my husband is sober today. He touched my/our lives and I am forever appreciative of all that he has given to this world.

Lovingly, Andrea H.

Had breakfast with Fr. Martin in Japan, lunch in Charlotte, NC and Atlanta, GA and supper in Germany. He is truly a worldwide inspiration and a very wonderful man.

- Al S.

In the Summer of 1986 I begain showing "Chalk Talk" and three others that Fr. Martin had given us, at a State Hospital in St Louis, that had a section for Alcoholism. I must have seen all of them a hundred times over and know that they had much to do with my sobriety. I know that he touched many, many lives. I am so grateful that he was there for us and will be dearly missed. - Tom Cartier

Heard Father Martin speak several times and saw his chalk talk when i was in treatment in 1981...His words have always had a great impact on my sobriety...What a wonderful gift from God he was to us drunks...but in his words his sobriety will not die when he did ...it will live on through the countless people he has helped recover... - Ken C

I stayed at Father Martin's Ashley back in 2002 of Jan. the 2cd. Actually arrived the 1st. But my first sober date, was Jan. 2, 2002 my daughter's 1st Birthday, I was so upset because I couldn't see her or be with her. The first week there was awful. I am a drug addict an alcoholic. To make this shorter, Father Martins Ashley saved my life. I was so lucky to have met Father Martin. He was always surrounded by people and I was to shy to bother him until he was done talking. Well it looked like he would be awhile so I started to walk away, and he made someone get me back over to the table. He asked if I would sit down next to him, and of course I was so nervous and happy. He wanted to hear why I was there and I we just talked for quite some time and then he got into his humorous side. He was so funny!!! I got a book he wrote and had him sign it. I'm so glad I did that. Also after my 28 day stay there, he was right beside me at the podium while I told my speech to new comers. I was so nervous, but when I glanced at Father Martin, he would look at me as if to say it's okay your doing fine. so when I finished, he handed me a medal and a hug. I will never forget him. He did so much for so many and saved so many lives. After I did complete my stay, I didn't want to leave. So I kept reading and watching videos of Father Martin. I had a lot of tools to take home with me. (mental tools). I always had guilt for what I did to my family, and friends. One tool was that you put all that guilt and every wrong thing you did and put into a "cabinet in your heart" then when you feel the urge to use, open up that cabinet and remember why it's there. It was a wonderful tool as are many. God Bless Father Martin, I will miss him so. He did wonderful endless work for so many. I am still sober and clean till this day.I gave my daughter a good birthday present. My kids are doing great. Thank you Father Martin! Please Rest in Peace. I am so sorry for his family's loss and all those at the recovery center. It was always a pleasure when he came to visit. I really am glad I got the chance to meet him. He was so kind and funny. We will all miss him. I know he had a long life, but the hurt is still the same. He's home now, and that's what God wanted, because he did his work, and what wonderful work he did. Thank you for the chance to let me write how I felt about Father Martin. All my condolences. - Lisa Andrews

Words cannot describe a kind man who would always make time to help a suffering soul. If not for the path in his life that led to Asley my life may have ended. The feeling of emptiness in my heart, upon hearing of his passing, is only outweighed by the gratitude in my soul. He will be greatly missed, fondly appreciated, and never forgotten. - Chris B.

I was a patient at Ashley in February, 1994. It was there that I "came to believe" that God really does love me, and this belief would be the source of a new life. My first real experience of feeling God's love and forgiveness came directly through the kind, gentle spirit of Father Martin. He was, is, and ever will be a source of God's love for all associated with recovery everywhere. I love you, Father, and know your message will live forever! - Michael D.

I was a loner in AA from 1974 to 76 and Chuck c sent me a tape of FR JOE MARTIN which I played over and over till it finally gave out so I recall his story and the great help it was to me fondly. God Rest His Soul. - Austin C.

My parents lived in a cottage at Oakington during WWII. I was born during that time and spent the first years of my life there while my father was at Aberdeen. 45 years later I met Father. I was newly sober and drove him to give a talk in Boston and I discovered Ashley and Oakington were the same. That started decades of friendship, meetings and a chance to be around him when he helped others. My family and I will be forever grateful for having known him. - David W.

I want to thank our Lord for Father Martin. For he is one of God's messengers.
I am also a recovered alcoholic. Sober for 2 years come March 14th. Though I was brought up Catholic I never was so close to Our Father in Heaven now since I've worked the 12 Step program and experienced the Spiritual Awakening in my soul. Now I try to live each day to serve others. I'm just a woman who lives in a small town called Winfield in Illinois but it just goes to show. God works in mysterious way. I will offer up my Mass on Sunday for Father Martin. I know he is in Paradise. God Bless. - Laura K.

As a recovering alcoholic and a retired counselor I am at a loss for words to express the loss I feel at the passing of this wonderful man. I will never forget the impact he has had on my recovery and the number of times I used his words to try and bring the message to another struggling alcoholic. Thank you for all you have meant to me, peace to you my friend. - Julie Y.

I have heard of Father Martin's loss. We have lost a wonderful gentle man. I have been a therapist in the field for 25 years and I work with addiction primarily. How many times I have listened to Father Martin's tapes, words of wisdom. He helped thousands of fallen folks who needed a supportive hand and Father Martin's words and presence oftentimes aided these individuals. We not only have lost a wonderful man, we have lost a legend. He leaves w beautiful legacy. - Diana D.

I met Father martin in 1980, when I was in treatment at Lutheran General Hospital. At the time I didn't know how to read and he and my friend encouraged me to learn how and I did, it took about 3 years, and look at me today, writing e-mails to people all over the country. My spelling still ain't the best, but I do read pretty good. There is no way I can repay that, except to carry the message to others. - Bill P.

In 1973 I was a Petty Officer in the Royal Canadian Navy (Canadian Armed Forces Navy)and had been allowed the priviledge of developing a structured Alcohol Treatment Program for the Pacific Command .
As the concept of supplying in house treatment for alcoholizm was new to the CAForces., the budget supplied was to say the least skimpy. Up to date books and publications on treatment and addiction were seen as expensive and were not on the priority list of our supply officials.
I took it upon myself to write to Father Martin and told him our situation.
I asked if he had any suggestions as to where I could procur some of the literature I could use at a reasonable cost.
To my great supprise and joy I recieved , not only did I recieve a peronal letter of encouragement and prayers for the succes of the clinic, but also two boxes of books and phamplets that I would put to good use, some right up to when I left the clinic in 1989.
There was no charge included just his blessings.
Along with all his generouse and loving supportive gifts to our cause, one was a copy of "Chalk Talk".This film was to be viewed by thousands of service personnel over the years.
The Prayers worked well as the clinic lasted over 25 years and now it has been taken over by civilian treatment but the follow up is being done by the forces to this day.
Over the years Father Martin was to produce many wonderful films and videos but that copy will forever be the gift that stands out in my heart and memory of Father Martin. This and his generousity, passion, caring, concern and love for those who are down and out.
He trully was a messenger from God and his words have saved many, many souls, and continue too inspire me as well.
Had he been able to sit in on my lectures he would have recognized so many of his thoughts, ideas and messages.
In the early 80's Father Martin came to Vancouver and I was blessed to be able to attend.
As one would expect frm a man so close to those he loves, he was there to meet me(and all the others) at the door.Sitting there I marveled at his image and was to be more awe struck when I introduced myself by name, and the fact I was in the navy, without hesitation he said "John, How are you and how is your program comming along?" I could have fallen over backwards and those words of acknowledgement have stuck with me to this very day.
His work here on earth was indeed, GODS WORK, and his energies, time and devotion to the alcoholic and all those who suffer, family, friends, fellow workers and employees will forever be appretiated.
Our love for him and his calling and the message he leaves behind will go on to relieve those who are just now coming to the light.
May he rest in peace and may he know he will be missed by millions.
I know he is missed by me.
Thank you Father Martin
Bravo Zulu my friend
John Helgason ICADC, SATS, BSW Chief Petty Officer 1st Class (Ret)

He was a wonderful man whom I was privileged to call a friend. Our paths
crossed many times over the years and He taught me many things about
staying sober and about helping others. there is a picture of him in my living room taken in Denver about twenty years ago. I shall treasure it as long as I live. Goodbye to a great and humble man. - Gordon L.

Father Martin, thank you for everything. You are a saint. - Leo R.

I first met Father Martin in San Diego while attending Navy Drug and Alcohol Counselor School. He was in the area giving one of his wonderful talks. For some reason after his talk, many in the audience seemed hesitant to approach Father Joe. I remember saying to myself "he's a wonderful man, I'm a recovering drunk and a Catholic in good standing; I'm going to go talk with this man and ask him to sign this book I just purchased". My experiences with him were better than I could have imagined. He was probably one of the warmest, loving and most sincere servants of God and his fellow man, I have ever had the pleasure to meet and talk with. After I chatted with Father Martin, others gained courage or overcame as me whatever hang-ups the had and before long a considerable line was formed to talk with Father Joe. It ended for me as an empowering and Spiritual experience.
Later, in my career, I ended up in contact with Father Martin again while attending some training in the Aberdeen, Md. area. We ran into each other at a AA meeting. I was astonished that Father Joe remembered me; as it had been 4-5 years since our initial meeting. We went on to stay in contact for a short while afterward and occasionally chat on the phone.
I have missed him in my life, and will miss him. He touched my heart as few people ever have.
Love ya Father; put in a good word for us in the Big Meeting In the Sky.

- Christopher C.

I remember listening to Father Martin at Seaborne Hospital in Dover, NH back in the 80's. What a breath of fresh air his knowledge was to those of us suffering in addiction way back then. Thanks to Father Martin's givings, i have celebrated 26 years of sobriety ...living one day at a time. Thanks for all you did Father... may you enjoy your arrival into the Kingdom!!! - Jane K.

Thank you for being you. - Jeannine P.

I am an alcoholic and a Catholic. I remember the first time I saw one of Fr. Martin's lectures (on tape) it definitely had an impact on me. He had a unique ability to teach and engage his audience. He was able to break-down our disease in a way that helped me understand what "was wrong with me" and that I was powerless over it. He is truly a great man.

- Steve W.

I am a physician who has worked in addiction medicine for the last 25 years. I am not in recovery. When I was asked to consider working in addiction medicine, I was given some videos to watch, among them "Chalk Talk." As a physician, I was impressed by Father Martin's love for the alcoholic, his cheerful and profound hope and his confidence in 12-step recovery. I also recall his impassioned plea that parents not alienate their children in practicing "tough love." His voice has been a blessing for me professionally and personally. Along with countless others, I will miss him now and look forward to seeing him later. - Jeffrey B.

I met Father Martin when he came to Michigan in 1984 to help us open a treatment center in Ann Arbor at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. Fr. Martin spent a day with the staff and then gave a talk in the community the next evening. I will never forget the joy of living and the love for alcoholics he shared with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. I did a didactic for years using his "relapse" video as a base and even though I have watched it hundreds of times, it always made me think about treating our patients with compassion. Heaven is a happier place today because he is there, and alcoholics everywhere now have another guardian angel praying for them...thank you Fr. Martin. - John F.

In 1979, at a meeting of the Divorced Catholics Group at the Paulist Center in Boston, MA, I saw a video of Father Martin's "Chalk Talk." It was my first introduction to the notion of alcoholism as a disease that affected behavior. On March 8, 1980, I took my last drink of alcohol. I am ever grateful not only to the influence of Father Martin on my road to recovery, but also to Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, my Higher Power and the loving support of family and friends. Please join me as we make our best efforts to pass on what was so freely given to us, by Father Martin and others. With a grateful heart ... thank you Father Martin, rest in peace. - Gene Marie R.

Fr. Martin was the first person I called in AA in 1972. I was an RN in Milledgeville, Georgia. I was showing his film, Chalk Talk. I later got to pick him up and have some personal time with him at various Substance Abuse Facilities I worked at in various states. He signed my meditation book, he remains one the "great examples of recovery, priesthood, and a wonderful human being. My life is better both personally and professionally because of him. I still use some of his quotes. - Gloria H.

I have been in recovery for a little over a year. I only recently came across Father Martin's teachings on youtube. I purchased one of his DVDs and throroughly enjoyed it. Even though I've only "known" him for about two weeks, I will miss him. His enthusiasm for recovery has inspired me. - Dave

Never saw or heard Father Martin, but heard his name and advice many times from other alcoholics that I respected. He touchded many and will forever!! Thanks you for sharing of his time and spirt!! - James L.

It was with great sadness that I learned of Father Martin's death. In early recovery I was blessed with seeing him, first at Mother Mc Auley high schoo in Chicago and later at Stepping Stones in Joliet, Illinois where Father was our guest speaker at our 25th Anniversary in the field of treating alcholics.I was given the opportunity to transport him to and from the Airport and have breakfast with him. His words of encouragement, inspiration and humor left a lasting imperssion in my heart. It was truly the highlight of my personal recovery in the 26 years I have been sober. He is someone who made a tremendous difference in our world and will never be forgotten. God has truly blessed us with his presence and he now has a place in heaven which he richly deserves. Sincerely - James T. Russell

I am truly saddened to hear of Father Martin's death. I met him while at Father Martin's in April 2006.. He was such an encouragement for me. I am sure he will be missed a great deal. I will always keep him in my heart. I have his video and play it often. - Melody L.

I showed "Chalk Talk" so often in the classes that I taught that I had it memorized. Fr. Martin will always have a special place in my heart and memory as one of the greatest contributors to the profession of alcoholism recovery. I love that he gave the priesthood a good role model and was unafraid to speak up for our disease. - Charlotte C.

I can't, He can, I think I will let Him! He has lived in my heart for more than thirty years of continus subriety. I praise my God for sending father martin to us. - Billy Madigan

When I first saw chalk talk in 1976 I new I was an alcoholic . The talk had my attention fully. I had the chance to meet Fr. Martin in the early eighties at Mountain Manor in MD. My two children were small at the time. I'm still sober 1977-2009 and my childred are growm. I don't have any tapes of chalk talk but that is going to change. I remember Fr.Martin saying the longer you are sober the closer you are to your last drink and also when you pick up that first drink after a period of time it's like you never stopped. Talk about scard straight that sentence alone make's me shake! Fr. Martin touch my life and continues to touch my life. I'm grateful we all can look back at all his work tapes,cd's and person to person contack and know he is still with us. He will be deeply missed. - Janet G.

Father Martin has an indelible place in my journey of recovery. His lectures and films helped me better understand my disease and convince me that I was certainly not alone in my search for sobriety and serenity. He will be sorely missed, but his love and influence will live on in the many lives he has touched. It is to his credit and influence along with that of many others in the recovering community that I was able to celebrate 25 years of blessed sobriety last year.

- Marcia M.

I have been in AA for 13 years with continuous sobriety. I am now taking a Lay Pastor Class at my church. Last night for the first time I was honored to watch Father Martin for the first time on a DVD give his talk about alcoholism. I was then asked to get up and tell the class my story. I am so sad to hear that Father Martin so recently passed. I really wish I could have met him but I know that I will eventually at the "Big Meeting in the Sky."

Not only did he greatly impact me a simple recovering alcoholic but he very greatly impacted nine other people none of whom knew anything of AA or recovery or alcoholism before seeing him on DVD.

Isn't it amazing how God doesn't call those who are already equipped but equips those He calls!!! What a fabulouse legacy this awesome child of God has left behind through his humble service. God Bless Father Martin. - Kate G.

You are right, he will missed beyond words. He brought such a profound enlightenment to this thing we call recovery. I am an educator and counselor that continues to use Father Martin's tape, video's and sayings.
I was wondering if EWTN is going to do a special on him? I called them and they stated that you should send them some footage that you might like them to broadcast. I sure would love to see it.
Could you let me know if that happens?
I Love You Father Martin and I will Miss You. - Randy Badgerow

I saw Father Martin's videos when I entered treatment in January of 1986.
I always listened closely to what he had to say. That was over 23 years ago and I still haven't relapsed. I owe a debt of gratitude to Father Martin's dedication of his life to the ones afflicted by this killer disease. Thanks for all the Heavenly Father did though this great servant. - Ken F.

Thank you for your service to God and mankind Father Martin.Your work helped me to find the new life of sobriety.You will be remembered.

- Tommy H.

I am deeply saddened today as I heard the new of Father Martins death. I recall watching his video tapes when I was in treatment in 1987 and on April 1st I will celebrate 22 years of recovery and sobriety. I am currently employed at a treatment facility and we show Father Martins videos weekly to our clients. He has been a true inspiration to me, and to many people in AA and recovery. He will be truly missed but will always be remembered. He has affected many lives and helped many thousands of us get clean and sober and learn the love of God. - Rhonda

When my father was at Father Martin's Ashley, I had the opportunity to meet Father Martin. It was a memorable moment and I was grateful to have had the honor to speak with this extraordinary man. Although the treatment was unsuccessful and my father eventually lost his battle with alcoholism, I know that they did everything they could because my father spoke so highly of it. What Father Martin has done over the years is remarkable and will never be forgotten. Through his work and words, his legacy will live on. Rest in Peace.

- Katie Rice