About
The History of MOPS
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, while their children received care, 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.
At Fort Mill MOPS, relationships offer hope to moms, especially as moms go deeper and take risks to create authentic community. All facets of relationships can be strengthened through taking risks, going deeper and showing authentic love-- neighborhood, friendships, marriages, extended families, the world around us and ultimately our relationships with God.
We strive to create a safe and personal environment where every mom realizes her beauty and importance. We also offer wonderful resources so that every mom has someone to lean on through the good times and the hard times.
Fort Mill MOPS began in 2000 with a substantial amount of women present for its first meeting. Precovid, the Fort Mill MOPS group had grown to an average of 90 women attending regular meetings and approximately 120 children enrolled in the MOPSKids program. We currently sit around 50 women and 50 children attending our program as we prayerfully look for more childcare workers to open our program back to full capacity.
FAQ:
What is a MOPS Group?
MOPS groups are communities that strive to meet the needs of every mom with children from birth through kindergarten. MOPS recognizes that urban, suburban, and rural moms, stay-at-home and working moms, teen, single, and married moms all share a similar desire to be the very best moms they can be.
The Fort Mill MOPS group is a collection of women from the local Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Tega Cay, Indian Land, Waxhaw, Lake Wylie and Charlotte areas. Gathering bi-monthly to foster personal, social and spiritual growth.
Do you do anything outside of meetings?
Yes, individual groups may meet for kid playdates or MNO (Moms' Nights Out), there are MOPS wide playdates typically at parks, and service/outreach activities.
Are we divided into smaller groups?
Yes, the large group is divided into smaller tables of approximately eight women each. These small groups foster a more intimate setting where you can actively engage in getting to know the women at your table well.
What is a Discussion Group Leader?
Each table is assigned a Discussion Group Leader (DGL). Her role will be to lead and connect your group through the year: discussions, communications, activities and much more. She will offer support and answer any questions that you may have. Her heart is to dive into relationships and create a safe, fun and loving atmosphere for each members experience.
What is a Mentor Mom?
Each table is assigned one mentor mom, a woman who offers information and perspective gained through their own mature personal experiences. Mentors carry a vital role in listening, encouraging and guiding MOPS moms through the twists and turns of life with a preschooler.' She will guide you in prayer, conversation and love. We are beyond blessed to have so many "older 'wisers'" walking with us.
What can I expect at a MOPS meeting?
Our MOPS meetings are geared toward giving you the opportunity to walk away feeling refreshed both personally, socially, creatively and spiritually.
Our meetings begin with breakfast, then you are given time to chat with your table and the bulk of our meeting is centered around either a creative activity or a speaker topic.
While our meetings are very structured, the environment is very relaxed and laid back. Come as you are and enjoy yourself!
All are welcome!