MOTHERS OF PRE-SCHOOLERS

We would like to take this opportunity to share this unique ministry – from how it serves mothers in the group to how it reaches out to the community – with the parish members. Please take a few minutes to learn about MOPS, and please get in touch with us if you would like more information.

MOPS, which stands for Mothers of Preschoolers, is much larger than our St. Ann’s MOPS group of 34 moms and over 40 children. MOPS is an international non-profit Christian organization that believes in working with local Christian churches to maximize ministry opportunities to God’s Kingdom, specifically by serving as a ministry to mothers with children ages 0-5

How does MOPS minister to its members?

St. Ann’s MOPS' monthly formal meetings include guest speakers, craft opportunities, and small-group discussion time. MOPS also sponsors monthly mother/ child activities at the church, mother/ child outings and "Moms-only" outings.

The theme for MOPS this year was "Twinkle. Shine like stars in the universe." Each member received a copy of Five-Star Families by Carol Kuykendall, and one chapter was discussed at each meeting. Following the themes found in the book, each meeting was based on one of the five-star family qualities: Love, Fun, Loyalty, Growth, and Faith. In addition, MOPS was fortunate enough to have wonderful guest speakers to add to our meetings. Father Chris Haydinger addressed issues of family loyalty. Gina Willet, a nutritionist, presented information and answered questions relating to family nutrition and a healthy attitude toward food, and Karen Walker reinforced the importance of emphasizing fun in family life.

St. Ann’s MOPS members have supported and ministered to each other this year through births, birthdays, family illness, moves and more. We do this with prayer, friendship, babysitting, listening, and often a home-cooked meal.

The preschool age children of MOPS members attend small classes for their age level (0-5) called MOPPETS. Each MOPPETS class follows a curriculum for that particular month’s theme that includes a craft, a brief lesson, music, a snack, and playtime. Each MOPPETS class is instructed by 2 MOPPETS caretakers.

St. Ann’s MOPS funds its’ activities through semi-annual dues, bake sales and proceeds from its annual Holiday Bazaar.

MOPS has reached out to the local community and beyond this year. MOPS raised $465 through its annual Holiday Bazaar to donate to Hanover Safe Place, a refuge for families fleeing domestic violence. MOPS members also collected Christmas gifts and necessities for a local family receiving services through Hanover Safe Place. For the second year, MOPS moms and their children visited Hanover Manor to trick-or-treat with the residents.

MOPS members created 16 Christmas shoebox care packages that were sent and distributed to families displaced by Hurricane Katrina. MOPS also conducted a food drive to replenish ACES supply of protein foods following the Christmas season.

MOPS members and their children have toured Panera Bread, made Star Light Globes, attended story time at the library, visited Lowe's to build tic-tac-toe games, built bird feeders, visited Romp n Roll for a free session, made picture frames, and celebrated Halloween, Valentine's Day and St. Patrick's Day with small parties.

Are there any activities outside of the monthly meetings for Moms-only?

MOPS organizes a Moms' Night Out each month. Outings this year have included Panera Bread, Barnes and Nobles cafe, the Melting Pot, Ashland Coffee and Tea, and Bunco games.

Open registration for next year will begin in June. Please contact Wendy Sellers, 550-5151, for more information.

MOPS has a need for outside support through Mentor Moms and MOPPET workers. In addition, we appreciate the parishioners' support of our bake sales and annual Holiday Bazaar.

A mentor mom is a mom who is walking a few steps ahead of us. She is someone whose children are in school or grown. She is a mom who wants to shepherd other moms through this exciting and difficult time with young children by serving as a friend, counselor, advisor, role model and a teacher.

MOPS is always seeking loving, patient and kind MOPPETS workers to instruct and care for our children during our monthly meetings. There are paid and volunteer positions available.

Please contact Wendy Sellers, 550-5151, for more information about MOPS.