Moms take care of their families. Who takes care of Moms?

MOPS does!

Eight women. The number was small, but the need was great. The first MOPS meeting took place in February 1973 in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. For two hours, while their children received care, these mothers talked, laughed, ate, passed a basket for childcare expenses, had a craft demonstration and ended with a short devotional. In this humble beginning, the seeds of the MOPS concept and format were planted. Through friendship, creative outlets, and instruction, the women began to understand that "mothering matters." Today, the same needs for significance are met in much the same way in MOPS groups across the United States and around the world.

 

MOPS has come a long way over the years, and continues to adapt to meet the various needs of moms today. As we follow God's leading, MOPS follows a truth that will never change: God loves mothers of preschoolers, fully affirming the identity and value of each woman. While each MOPS group is different, the ministry is built on several foundational principles:

· Community: MOPS provides an open, caring, and accepting atmosphere, where women can come together to share this important season of life.

· Lifestyle Evangelism: Because MOPS is designed to be accessible and comfortable for both Christian and non-Christian women, MOPS leaders are trained to build relationships based on common experiences, and share their faith in a personal and non-threatening way.

· Mentoring: Through the relationships built in MOPS groups, mentors share wisdom from their experiences in practical and meaningful ways.

· Practical Instruction: Teaching focuses on areas of common interest, presented from a biblical perspective. This style  provides a practical Christianity that allows a non-Christian woman to feel comfortable in a MOPS group. MOPS is not a Bible study.

· Leadership Development: MOPS groups are organized and run by mothers of preschoolers for mothers of preschoolers. They gain confidence and grow in their leadership skills through training and experience. After graduating from MOPS, women often move into other areas of leadership in their church or community.

 

The above principles may be carried out through different aspects of a MOPS group:

· Discussion: The intimate and accepting atmosphere of a small group offers moms a chance to share their successes, failures, questions, and concerns. It is during these times that a mom realized that she is not alone, and lifelong friendships are formed.

· Teaching: Presenters offer inspiration and information that is relevant to the life of a mother. Topics celebrate motherhood and meet a mom's unique needs.

· Creative Activities: Through creative projects and presentations, women are encouraged to experience the sense of accomplishment that comes with trying and finishing new things.

· MOPPETS: During most MOPS meetings, children are cared for in a program called MOPPETS, where they experience Christ's love in a preschool-like setting.

 

If you would like to know more about MOPS International or would like to find a group in your area, please visit their website at www.mops.org. There you will find more information about MOPS, other chapters around the world, membership information, discussion forums, and lots of resources!