Mothers of Preschoolers
Mothers of Preschoolers Faith Statement:
MOPS International exists to encourage, equip and develop
every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a
woman, mother and leader in the name of Jesus Christ.
Better Moms Make A Better World
What is MOPS?
MOPS groups are communities that strive to meet the needs of every mom with children from birth through kindergarten.
We have two groups that meet once per month. In our meetings, we gather to take a break amongst other moms. We share ideas, support and laugh together. Typical meetings can include a guest speaker, a craft, always yummy food, and great conversation.
Our children are cared for onsite, by loving volunteers who are typically past MOPS members, grandparents, friends, or members of Messiah Lutheran Church's congregation. We do perform background checks on childcare volunteers. While we relax and enjoy adult conversation, our kids get quality playtime with other kids their age.
2011-2012 Theme
MOMSense – A Common Sense Guide to Confident Mothering —
Developing a mothering strategy is somewhat like playing a game — and this year’s theme is appropriately game related. Have fun being a mom! Playing games involves being BOLD and taking risks, LOVING those in the game with us and being SENSIBLE while figuring out what works and what doesn’t. Just as in real-life, sometimes in games unexpected, “chance” events occur, abruptly changing our paths. We must regroup and determine our next steps. Sometimes we follow the instructions of “experts.” Sometimes we follow the advice of trusted friends. Sometimes we decide our “house rules” work best for our family. Teaming together with other moms is a great strategy. Relying on a spouse or mentor can help us play more effectively. And, most of all, developing a strong God-Sense is essential for mothering. Growing as a mom through the analogy of game playing assures every mom gains confidence in her abilities as a mom.
MOPS International
Messiah MOPS (which stands for Mothers of Preschoolers), belongs to MOPS International. This group recognizes that urban, suburban and rural moms, stay-at-home and working moms, teen, single and married moms all share a similar desire to be the very best moms they can be. MOPS groups can help!
MOPS International exists to meet the needs of every mom who all share a similar desire to be the very best moms they can be! MOPS recognizes that the years from infancy through the end of kindergarten are foundational in a mother-child relationship and are filled with unique needs. MOPS helps moms through relationships established in the context of local groups that provide a caring atmosphere for today's mother of young children. MOPS also encourages and supports moms through resources such as books, the website (www.MOPS.org) and the MOPS International Membership.
There are more than 3900 MOPS groups meeting across the United States and in 35 countries around the world. MOPS groups meet regularly to celebrate the joys of motherhood and to encourage each other through the challenges.
The MOPS program 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.
Mentoring: Mature women listen, encourage and offer information and perspectives gained through experience.
Practical Instruction: Teaching focuses on area of common interest, offering inspiration and information that is relevant to the life of a mother.
Leadership Development: MOPS groups are organized and run my mothers of preschoolers, as well as for mothers of preschoolers. Women who are involved in MOPS gain confidence in their leadership skills through the training and experience they receive from MOPS.
The above principles can 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 realizes that she is not alone, and lifelong friendships are formed.
Teaching: Topics presented at MOPS meetings celebrate motherhood and meet a mom’s unique needs during this season of life.
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 love in a preschool-like setting.
When Do We Meet?
Messiah MOPS sponsors 2 MOPS groups which meet at different times. Messiah’s sponsorship includes financial support, volunteers, space usage and Messiah staff support.
Daytime Messiah MOPS
Meets the 2nd Friday of each month, September through May from 9:10am to 11:30am.
For more information, please contact Alison at uwbucky@gmail.com or 763-783-3096 and Jen at talula1027@yahoo.com or 763-227-8567.Evening Messiah MOPS
Meets the 2nd Thursday evening of each month, September through May from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
For more information please contact Jamie at tommies_03@yahoo.com or Dani at vandellend@hotmail.com or 763-862-2025.
Schedule
We will meet on the following dates:
Please note: The September 16, 2011 MOPS meeting has been cancelled. Our first meeting will be October 14, 2011.
What Does it Cost?
$63.95 for the entire year (September – May)
$38.95 due in September for first semester (September – December).
$25.00 due in January for second semester (January – May).
Rates are adjusted if joining mid-semester.How does this break down?
$23.95 MOPS International membership fee
$5 per meeting - This covers childcare, crafts and other program costs for 9 meetings. One meeting is free!
Messiah MOPS would never turn anyone away due to their inability to pay. Please contact Jen (our Finance Coordinator) at 651-490-1268 for available scholarships.
Want to try it out before joining?
New moms may try one meeting without paying. Fees can be paid the next month.
What are MOPS International Fees ?
The MOPS International Membership brings the support and encouragement of MOPS International directly to your home. A MOPS International membership ($23.95) is required to join Messiah MOPS. Although no part of the $23.95 is used locally. Messiah MOPS does reap many benefits from MOPS International. Scholarships and discounts are available. As a member of MOPS International, you’ll receive the following benefits to encourage, equip and develop you to be a great mom!
Annual MOPS International Membership Benefits:
- MOMSense Magazine: Bi-monthly subscription full of mothering expertise, parenting tips and fun things to do with your preschoolers!
- MOM-E-Mail: Weekly bursts of encouragement!
- MyMOPS Online Benefits: Special online membership benefits updated each month with mom and kid activities, contests, coupons, author discussions and FREE music downloads.
What is MOPPETS?
MOPPETS is the MOPS childcare program (for children aged newborn through the end of Kindergarten). While moms are in the MOPS meeting, children are cared for in age appropriate classes. These classes provide an opportunity for children to socialize and interact with other children in a safe, loving environment. It is also an opportunity for your child/ren to hear Bible stories, do a craft or sing.
MOPPETS Volunteers are always needed!
Have a friend or relative interested in volunteering in MOPPETS? Jen at jenknoebel@yahoo.com or 651-490-1268.
Do You Yahoo?
If you come to Messiah MOPS, please consider joining the Messiah MOPS community online! Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MessiahMOPS and sign up! This email group provides an easy way for Messiah MOPS Moms to communicate, share ideas, ask questions, send reminders, plan playdates, etc.
Need More Information?
Daytime MOPS: Alison at uwbucky@gmail.com or 763-783-3096 or Jen at talula1027@yahoo.com or 763-227-8567.
Evening MOPS: Jamie at tommies_03@yahoo.com or Dani at vandellend@hotmail.com.
MOPPETS: Jen at jenknoebel@yahoo.com or 651-490-1268.
Publicity/Website: Kristie at kristie@nbcc.cc.
Last Updated 8/3/11
