Did you hook up your matrix exactly like the schematics out of the PIC Programming handbook? If so, I don't see how they work. I've been shown up many times in electronics and it might happen again here so here goes.

On the 7 x 15 schematic the left hand CD4017 pin 6 is hooked directly to ground along with the base of the first column transistor. On either schematic I don't see how any diode is positively biased. None of the LEDs have a positive voltage applied to the anodes. If a high is to come from the PIC it's blocked by the right most column LEDs.

I haven't had a chance to look at the code and frankly I wouldn't know an error in assembly if it had a prompt. I do plan on using your code in a project when I get some time. Thanks and let the schooling begin.