The series -- on three successive Friday evenings beginning Jan. 27 -- utilizes six, half-hour videos produced by the PovertyCure initiative.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Peoria is hosting a three-part series reflecting on the causes of poverty and encouraging solutions.

The series — on three successive Friday evenings beginning Jan. 27 — utilizes six, half-hour videos produced by the PovertyCure initiative. The gatherings are open free of charge to all interested persons and will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Family Resources Center, 415 NE Monroe in Peoria.

A wide invitation to take part in the discussion was issued by Suzie Meismer, ministries coordinator and supervisor for Catholic Charities. The goal of the series is “to develop both hearts and minds for the poor.”

“Whether you have worked for a long time with the poor or are just considering it and not quite sure what to do, anyone and everyone is welcome,” said Meismer.  While participants may attend one, two, or all three sessions, she especially encouraged being present for the opening evening Jan. 27 “to see what it’s all about.”

Two videos will be shown each evening, with brief discussion following. The schedule of topics is as follows:

• Jan. 27 — “Helping that Hurts” and “The Entrepreneurial Calling.”
• Feb. 3 — “Justice for the Poor” and “Circles of Exchange”
• Feb. 10 — “The Power of the Gospel” and “Churches, Communities and Culture.”

Povertycure is an initiative of the Acton Institute and seeks to foster a global conversation on poverty. It embraces the Judeo-Christian teaching that all humans are made in the image of the Creator.  The initiative supports entrepreneurialism, enterprise and employment rather than handouts, aide and dependency.  Learn more at povertycure.org.