A financial-advice program that has gained national popularity is returning to Albert Lea.

Financial Peace University is a 13-week course taught by radio host and book author Dave Ramsey on common-sense principles for handling and saving money and getting free of debt.

Zion Lutheran Church, 924 Bridge Ave., hosted the course last fall and hosts it again this spring.

“We are going to do it again because everybody who participated in it the first time loved it,” said the Rev. Joel Vano.

He said the general public is welcomed to attend a free preview of the course at 7 p.m. Feb. 6 at the church. The actual course starts Feb. 20, with classes each week.

After each lesson there is a small group discussion that provides accountability and encouragement. Topics include saving for emergencies, budgeting, relationships and money — and getting out of debt.

“FPU is a fun and easy-to-understand program,” Ramsey said in a news release. “Whether you are deeply in debt or financially secure, FPU will help you gain a new perspective on how to handle your money. These lessons are especially essential right now as people are trying to regain control of their finances.”

Vano said the church supports the program because bolstering finances is good for strengthening families. He said even participants with healthy finances enjoyed it.

“It gave them new ideas,” he said.

Participants will need to purchase a kit that includes a lifetime family membership to Financial Peace University, a workbook, an envelope system, 13 audio lessons, bonus CD, budgeting forms, debit card holders and Ramsey’s best-selling book “Financial Peace.”

Anyone can attend the preview session to learn more and to register.