OBUMC MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

What is MOPS?

MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers, a ministry designed to nurture mothers with children from infancy through kindergarten. MOPS groups meet in churches throughout the United States, Canada, and 19 other countries. The women are of many ages and backgrounds, but share the same desire – to be the best mothers they can be.

MOPS is About….

· Celebrating Motherhood

· Making Connections with Other Moms

· Providing Support and Affirmation

· Experiencing God’s Love through Relationships and Resources

When and where does MOPS meet?

We meet the 2^nd and 4^th Wednesday of each month, September through May. The meetings will start at 7:00 PM and close at 9:00 PM. We meet at Old Bridge United Methodist Church in the Fellowship Hall. We will have food and refreshments each meeting. We also have a few activities outside of MOPS meetings planned for moms as well as entire families.

Additionally, if you are looking for a daytime playgroup, we meet every Friday morning. Activities range from playing in the nursery at Old Bridge United Methodist Church to visiting petting zoos to playing at playgrounds. We will be in the nursery every 1^st and 3^rd Friday from 9:30 to 11:30. We will be elsewhere on the other Fridays.

What happens at MOPS?
Teaching focuses on areas of common interest, offering inspiration and information that is relevant to the life of a mother. Mentor moms listen, encourage and offer information and perspectives gained through their experiences. 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. While the mothers enjoy adult time, the children are well cared for in the nursery.

The MOPS International theme for the 2011-2012 year is "MOMSENSE: Bold-Loving-Sensible" with our theme verse: "God doesn't want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible" -- 2 Timothy 1:7

This year's theme equips moms to embrace their mothering instincts and develop their own parenting style while navigating through the myriad of daily mom decisions

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. Come join us as we explore how to play more effectively, grow, and gain confidence in our abilities as a mom!

What do I do with my children?

MOPS at Old Bridge UMC is for YOU, the mom; this is why we offer FREE childcare during our meetings. Children 6 months and older will be cared for in the nursery. Children under 6 months of age are welcome to join you during MOPS meetings. Please know that your children are in great, loving hands!

Is there a cost involved?

Registration Dues are $23.95 for MOPS International Membership as well as a $20 group fee.

If you are not sure if MOPS is for you, please come and check us out! We allow all new moms to attend up to two meetings before joining MOPS.

Financial support is available. Scholarships are available when needed, or the amount can be paid monthly instead of all at once. We want all moms to have the opportunity to participate in MOPS.

What benefits do I receive from MOPS International Membership:

Local MOPS Group Community

MOPS encourages you to attend a local MOPS group, where moms come together to learn, share, and experience this important season of mothering in a caring and accepting atmosphere.

Mom e-mail

Weekly bursts of encouragement!

MyMOPS Online Benefits

MOPS encourages you to attend a local MOPS group, where moms come together to learn, share, and experience this important season of mothering in a caring and accepting atmosphere Special online membership benefits updated each month with mom and kid activities, contests, coupons, author discussions and FREE music downloads.

Additional Benefits Include:

MOPS Reusable Shopping Bag

MOPS Iron On Appliques

MOPS Stickers featuring Veggie Tales

For more information on the MOPS ministry, please visit www.mops.org.

For more information about OBUMC MOPS, please email obumcmops@verizon.net.