We recognize that there is no manual to motherhood. And we know that although motherhood is a precious gift--it can be overwhelming. This is why Acts 2 has established a ministry for Mothers of Pre-Schoolers (MOPS). This ministry is an extension of MOPS International and aims to actualize the organization's mission: "to encourage, equip, and develop every mother of pre-schoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother and leader in the name of Jesus Christ."
There are several things that are suspiciously omitted from pregnancy and parenting books. Sure, they fully detail the two o'clock feedings, how to swaddle a writhing infant, and the perils of potty training, but little is explained about how to navigate the emotional and mental issues that stem from becoming a mother.
There is no chapter entitled "Isolation" or "Where Did My Routine…My Life Go?" Nor is there even a paragraph about the depth of exhaustion that ensues when taking care of infants and toddlers, or even a word about the feelings of inadequacy that all mothers at one time or another have rattling in their heads.
As a MOPS member you can enjoy bi-monthly meetings filled with food, fun, and fellowship. The meetings offer time for mothers to just be themselves in the company of other women in the same season of life. Childcare is provided across the hall from the meeting site. Each meeting starts with a brunch and conversation and concludes with either a speaker, time for a craft, or small group discussions with your peers. There are also planned outside activities (i.e. visiting pumpkins patches or a park play dates) for both mothers and children in addition to monthly Mother Night's Out (i.e. game or movie night).
Meeting Times: The second and fourth Mondays of each month from 9:30-11:15a.m.
Meeting Dates:
MOPS for Fall 2010 will begin on Monday, September 13th at 9:30am.
Volunteer Opportunities in MOPS
- Mentor Moms – mothers who have survived the toddlers years and wish to encourage and minister to moms with young children.
- Speakers – ones willing to lead a 10-15 minute devotional or give a testimony to the group at the bi-monthly meetings
- Childcare providers – women willing to watch the children of MOPS moms during the bi-monthly meetings
MOPS Testimony:
Why MOPS? “MOPS is one of the few organizations I have been a part of that continuously remembers and tries to adhere its stated mission. I have seen numerous women pushing themselves and others to be better mothers, friends, and leaders because of their involvement in MOPS. In fact, even more impressive is that I have never seen evidence of anything contrary to the mission…I have not once experienced or witnessed an unwelcoming or unsupportive mother. This group has achieved an authentic community of respect, camaraderie, and love…one that is truly refreshing and most inspiring and one in which I am happy to call myself a member.” –Acts 2 MOPS Member
|
