What is MOPS?

THE MOPS STORY Eight women. The number was small, but the need was great. The first MOPS meeting took place in February 1973 in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. For two hours these mothers talked, laughed, ate, passed a basket for childcare expenses, had a craft demonstration, and ended with a short devotional. In this humble beginning, the seeds of the MOPS concept and format were planted. Through friendship, creative outlets, and instruction, the women began to understand that "mothering matters." Today, the same needs for significance are met in much the same way in MOPS groups across the United States and around the world.

PHILOSOPHY & VALUES
MOPS was founded on the belief in God's love for mothers of preschoolers, a love that fully affirms the identity and value of each of these mothers. This is our foundation, and it is based on the following concepts:

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 areas of common interest, offering inspiration and information that is relevant to the life of a mother.

Leadership Development: MOPS groups are organized and run by 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.

MOPS International Mission Statement
Encourage, equip and develop every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother and leader in the name of Jesus Christ.