Testimonials from Financial Peace University Participants

When we first heard about Financial Peace University we were quite skeptical about whether it could possibly help us. We had a budget, we paid off our credit cards every month, we had little debt except for the mortgage, and we gave regularly both to our church and other charities. At first it did not seem that it would be worth the effort to spend an evening each week for 13 weeks to help us manage our resources.

We did eventually decide that it would be a good idea to attend, and it has made a big difference in both of our lives. We learned that some of the things we were doing were good, but we also saw many areas where we could be doing better. We learned a number of things that helped with both our short- and long-term planning and management of money.

Perhaps the most important thing that Financial Peace University did for us was that it got us both involved in our financial planning. We now work together with a common budget and a common set of goals. We have become a team in managing our resources. This in itself has become a major blessing.

Ted and Jane K.

Our finances were on a collision course. It was a constant source of stress in life and threatening the survival of our marriage. I believe every couple contemplating marriage needs to take this course before they tie the knot. If we stay on course, we will be debt free within three years of starting the course. It has been an amazing turnaround.

Timothy W.

Financial Peace University (FPU) has completely changed our outlook on money. We are almost debt free, and have not incurred any new debt for almost 3 years. While I would mention we have paid off close to $40,000 in debt over 20 months, the more important part to us, was the peace we received from the program. As newlyweds, many fights revolved around money. Now, I can truthfully say we never fight about money. What a blessing to our bank accounts and our relationship!

Teana N.

My husband and I found Dave Ramsey’s program in December 2007. At that time he was only working part time and we had exhausted every dime of our savings account; our marriage was starting to feel the strain of our finances and we were not making any good financial decisions. Over one weekend we listened to two of Dave’s books in the car and decided to commit. Since that weekend in 2007 we have reduced our debt by over $39,000.00, stopped using credit cards, and made tithing a priority. Our marriage is better and since making tithing a priority our budget has always worked out, even when it shouldn’t. We credit God with providing Dave’s program at the "right" time and we want the same for others.

Gabe and Leslie H.

Dave Ramsey’s Suggestions for Hope

The Town Hall focused on the historic nature of economic cycles and the spirit of fear that pervades the airwaves regarding the current economic climate. The Town Hall in contrast provided a message of hope that while there has been a substantial drop in market values, and there have been announcements of business closings, layoffs and foreclosures, the reality is that unemployment currently at 8.5% is less than the 10% that existed during the 1982 recession; inflation is zero now whereas it was in excess of 10% in 1982; and mortgage rates are currently in the 4% to 5% range whereas they were 17% in 1982. These times can be worked through, and people can choose not to participate in the recession. Dave’s three steps for taking action against fear and hopelessness are:

1. Get Up and Take action.

Take control of your finances, and don’t wait for someone or some agency to fix things for you. Don’t give in to fear that leads to inaction. Hold representatives accountable for the decisions they are making about money.

2. Stop Listening to Loser Talk

Don’t participate in mourning the hopeless situation of the economy. Speak the words of hope.

3. Start Giving

Learn how to give, whether it is money, time, or support. Giving changes our mindset, and the focus of where problems lie. Until we learn to give we will not be able to be successful with money and change our nation.

Financial Peace University upcoming class schedule

In support of empowering members to take control of their finances, Central Mission is promoting the use of the Presiding Bishopric reviewed and approved resources for financial management: Good $ense, 3 Simple Rules, and the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University. These and other references are summarized at http://www.cofchrist.org/Generosity/Adult.asp

The Financial Peace University course is unique in its specific guidance for participants on how to take 7 baby steps to Financial Peace. Upcoming classes consisting of 13 weekly sessions are being provided by:

The Central Mission Bishopric is choosing to use this as an opportunity to support congregations helping members take an active role in developing a positive and hopeful financial future for themselves and in turn for their congregations and the church throughout the world. Sign up for a Financial Peace University Class, put your trust in God and stop worrying that your future or your congregation’s future is financially doomed. Find the power of giving generously according to your true capacity free from the shackles of conventional culture.

For more information about the Town Hall for Hope visit:

http://www.townhallforhope.com/