MOPS group welcomes new members

By Sue Odegard

At their first meeting on Jan. 11, the hallways at First Covenant Church echoed with the sounds of young children.

"We had 26 moms and 49 children," said Stephanie Shipp, MOPS coordinator. "It demonstrated that there must be a need for such a group."

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is an international organization coordinated by mothers of preschool-aged children. Meetings include a discussion group, craft activity and bi-monthly theme. A nursery is provided for infants and toddlers and a Bible story and craft time is provided for preschoolers.

The local group meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the church, 1374 N. Main St. Fellowship begins at 9:15 a.m., large group meetings start at 9:35 a.m., discussion groups begin at 10:20 a.m., and craft time begins at 10:50 a.m.

The cost is $3 and includes child care, refreshments and craft materials. Daycare costs for younger children are $1 per child.

MOPS was formed in 1973. Elisa Morgan is president of the organization, based in Denver. Teen and urban groups have been started as well.

The local group started in 1994 at the First Covenant Church and existed for 5 years before it folded. The new group recently named the following Steering Team Leaders: Gail Baar, MOPS Mentor; Stephanie Shipp, MOPS Coordinator; Mindi Eklund, MOPPETS Coordinator; Kathi Nelson, Publicity; Lori Fuller, Finance; Lori Miller, Hospitality; Susan Gray, Discussion Group Leader; and Pam Yelken, Craft Leader.

Upcoming topics are:

-"His Needs, Her Needs," Feb. 8

-"Creating Memories Throughout the Year," Feb. 22

-"Discipline," March 14

-"Interior Decorating," March 28

-"Sibling Rivalry," April 11

-"Marriage - 8 Keys to Growth," April 25

-"How to Teach Your Child to Work," May 9

-"Brunch," May 23

New members are welcome. For more information, call Shipp at 426-0509, or the church office at 425-2640.