In these tough economic times, families are searching means to save money and get out of debt, and to help aid in this effort, one local church is sponsoring the Financial Peace University series.

The 13-week program designed by Dave Ramsey will be featured at the First Baptist Church of Andalusia beginning Tues., March 23, at 6 p.m.

The program has been called “life-changing” and teaches families and individuals how to handle their money through common-sense principles and small group accountability. Class members meet with their class each week to watch a video lesson and participate in discussion groups.

Jeremy McMath, event organizer, said it was a personal conviction from the Lord on how to deal with personal finances – specifically his own – that prompted him to organize the event.

“I listen to talk radio on Faith Radio and other places,” he said. “And I hear Dave Ramsey and others. I felt that I needed to be a better steward of what the Lord has given me. A lot of times you feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders (because of financial responsibility), and this (program) is what I needed. No one was offering the program, so I said ‘why don’t I do it?’”

This will be the program’s second presentation in Andalusia. Previous graduates from the First Presbyterian Church session said the program delivered exactly what it promised – financial freedom.

“It was very, very enlightening,” said Denise Brooks of Brooks Hardware. “You think you are doing a good job saving until you go through (the program), and you realize you didn’t know anything.

“At the end, we cut up all of our credit cards,” Brooks said. “We both have one for if we are going to travel, but that’s it.”

She said not only did participants learn a great deal from the program, but she also said Ramsey is entertaining to listen to.

Brooks said the program impacted her so much that she, in her role as the county chapter of Habitat for Humanity’s family support committee chair, makes it a requirement for families to take the course.

Ronda Ricks, a recent attendee, said she too learned how to pay off debt.

She said one thing that really stuck with her was to pay off the lowest credit card balances first and then apply the amount she was paying to the higher balances once the lowest bill is paid off.

Ricks said the best thing she got out of the program was learning that she could become debt free.

“I would recommend it,” she said. “God doesn’t want us in debt. Anyone who would like to get out of debt should attend. Dave Ramsey presents a wonderful plan that is Biblically based.”

Cost of the program is $99 and childcare will be provided. Classes begin March 23. The registration deadline is March 16.

For those who want a sneak-peak at the program, McMath said there will be a public preview March 16 at 6:30 p.m. in the choir room at FBC. Childcare will be provided. March 16 is also the deadline to sign up for the program.

For more information or to register, call 222-5152.