MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers, a non-denominational Christian organization that reaches out to mothers of children under school age. Women in MOPS come from different backgrounds and lifestyles, yet have similar needs and a shared desire to be the best mother they can be. MOPS is dedicated to the message that "Mothering Matters" and that moms of young children need encouragement during these critical and formative years. MOPS helps moms and makes a difference in the lives of families. The purpose of MOPS is to nurture every mother of preschoolers by meeting her distinct needs to the glory of Jesus Christ.

Upon entering a MOPS meeting, moms escort their children to MOPPETS, a special part of the MOPS program for children from infancy through Kindergarten. Here, the children experience a caring environment while they learn, think, play, and make crafts. They are also provided with a nut-free snack.

Once their children are settled, the MOPS moms join a program tailor-made to meet the needs of mothers of young children. They can grab something good to eat and not have to share it. They can finish a sentence and not have to speak children-ese . The program begins with a light buffet breakfast and a time for fellowship.

To give moms an extra incentive to arrive on time for the meetings, there is an "early-bird" drawing at each meeting for prizes. Then, moms participate in a fun and creative activity. For moms who are often frustrated by the impossibility of completing anything in their unpredictable days, this time is deeply satisfying. It provides a sense of accomplishment, growth, and enjoyment for many moms.

Next, the moms gather to hear issues of interest presented by a speaker, a video on a variety of topics relating to motherhood, or hear from other women in the group. Then, the women participate in small discussions where each mom is free to share her joys and struggles with other women who truly understand her feelings.

We hope you will join us this 2007-2008 MOPS year when the theme is:
........................ " the Home factor: Begin here...Go there " based on John 14:17 .

The Grace Baptist Church MOPS group is affiliated with MOPS International: http://mops.org/