According to Dr Cliff Arnall, a specialist in seasonal disorders at the University of Cardiff, the third week in January is the most depressing week of the year, when Christmas bills start to pile on the financial pressure and the dismal weather dampens spirits.
With this in mind, Barlow challenged Christians to break the cycle of depression.
"Debt is so much easier to get into and so much harder to get out of. We passionately beat with God's heart for the poor and we as God's people need to be bringers of hope in this society," he said.
Christian author Rob Parsons joined the launch of CAP Money. In his book The Money Secret published in 2005, he predicted the coming of a massive market crash.
He pointed to the timeliness of CAP Money's launch in the light of the present stock market turmoil.
"You and I are looking at this on a significant day in the history of our world. Stock markets are crashing around the world," said Parsons.
"This is not just about individuals. This is affecting nations, economies. It is not just a matter that people have been foolish in borrowing. The way that banks have lent has been foolish in the extreme. We are beginning to see the foolishness of the way the system has been operating."
Parsons hit home the golden rule of successful budgeting, telling Christians, "You cannot spend more than you have coming in."
He praised CAP for its professional and "breathtaking" work in helping people to overcome their debt. "They inspire me," he said.
Parsons also praised CAP Money as a "fantastic" course.
"They are changing lives," he said. "These people are bearers of hope. Thank you for what you do. You are serving the church, we are indebted to you. I am indebted to you."
