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Story 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, had a craft, and ended with a short devotional. In this humble beginning, the seed of the MOPS concept and format were planted. Through friendship, creative outlets, and instruction, the women began to understand that "mother matter."
Today, the same needs for significance are met in much the same way in MOPS groups across the United States and around the world.
Growth began as word spread in churches, conventions, and magazine articles that explained this unique new program. Inquiries and requests for information became more frequent, and a handbook was printed. Office space moved from a desk in a family room to a rented office. In 1981, MOPS established a Board of Directors and incorporated first as MOPS Outreach, and later as MOPS, Inc. As interest mushroomed, leadership training began. One hundred fifty women from five states gathered in 1982 for the first all-day MOPS leadership seminar. In 1988, MOPS expanded beyond US borders and was renamed MOPS International, Inc. to reflect the international impact of the ministry. As MOPS grew, so did the need for a chartering process, additional resource materials, and a paid staff. The Board hired Elisa Morgan as the first president of the organization in 1989. MOPS reached out to moms through the MOMSense newsletter (now MOMSense magazine) beginning in 1993. The newsletter joined the existing MOMSense radio program to help MOPS nurture every mother of preschoolers, whether or not she attended a MOPS group.
For only $23.95 a year, a mom can register for membership with MOPS International and receive a one-year subscription to MomSense magazine, weekly Mom-E-Mail messages, and other great benefits. The MOPS International offers articles, forums, resources and more. Visit their website by clicking HERE.