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Every mom has a place with us. We uphold a boldness of inclusion because we know that there is room for a vast collage of women who thirst for Jesus.
4. Expansive
(Revelation 22:17)
We look to Jesus' footsteps for how to walk through the world, which allows us to be radically gracious in expression and association.
5. Known by what we are for (Matthew 22:36-40)
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
6. Sisterhood Cultivators (Hebrews 10:35)
We lead communication of a timeless message to a culture of many voices, dialects and backgrounds.
7. Multilingual
(1 Corinthians 9:22)
Our 7 beliefs
1. Jesus Followers (John 14:6)
We are compelled by the movement of Jesus Christ and Invite others to explore their own faith journey toward Him.
2. Advocates (Proverbs 31:8>9)
We are passionate proponents for the value of motherhood and influence of women.
3. Kingdom Enthusiasts
(Mathew 6:23)
We believe in God's Redemptive work in the world which encourages us to be playful in spirit, gneraous at heart and faith-filled in confession.
Every mom has a place with us. We uphold a boldness of inclusion because we know that there is room for a vast collage of women who thirst for Jesus.
4. Expansive
(Revelation 22:17)
We look to Jesus' footsteps for how to walk through the world, which allows us to be radically gracious in expression and association.
5. Known by what we are for (Matthew 22:36-40)
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
6. Sisterhood Cultivators (Hebrews 10:35)
We lead communication of a timeless message to a culture of many voices, dialects and backgrounds.
7. Multilingual
(1 Corinthians 9:22)
This is motherhood.
Never forget that love is the best thing we do.
Love big, love messy, love loud.
Slow down and cuddle your littles, even when they're big.
Abandon the life of perfectionism. Learn from your kids and color outside the lines.
stand in awe of the masterpiece you create.
Smile knowing right now will taste even better as a memory. Declare goodness: the words you speak dictate the life in front of you.
Remember that bad days come and go.
When all else fails- dance it out. You are loved by a good God who calls you daughter.
Tend to your own wounds as gently as you do the skinned knees and jammed fingers and hurt feelings.
The be the friend you need, even when you're busy.
Hug people too long. Catch the tears of other moms too.
Speak up for those who don't have a voice and your kids will do the same.
Sit in the warmth that your baby will change the world someday.
Stand knowing that you can too.
our top 9
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Jesus Follower
1
Redemptive
3
Compelled
2
Fun
4
Generous
5
Influencial
7
Passionate
6
Bold
8
Expansive
9
OUR MISSION
MomCo encourages and equips moms of young children to realize their potential as mothers, women and leaders, in relationship with Jesus, and in partnership with the local church.
STATEMENT OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER
The MomCo is a community of like-minded Christian believers who serve the mission of the organization as its representatives, including all of the directors, officers, employees and volunteers, each of whom are an integral part of the community.
MomCo maintains this faith-based community as an exercise of its Christian beliefs and as an expression of these beliefs to the larger community. In addition, MomCo subscribes to the Christian belief that all of its activities should express and render service to God.
Under God, MomCo embraces the following statements of faith, which we hold to be essential to the foundation of our Ministry.
STATEMENTS OF FAITH
The only true God, the sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all things, existing eternally in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Deut 6:4‐5; Acts 17:24‐28; 2 Cor 13:14).
The divine inspiration, entire trustworthiness and authority of the Bible in faith and practice (2 Peter 1:20‐21; 2 Tim 3:16‐17; Psalm 119:9‐11, 105; 1 Thes 2:13).
The full deity and humanity of Jesus Christ, who lived as a perfect example, who atoned for the sins of the world at the cross, who was bodily raised from the dead and ascended as both Lord and Savior, and who will return in power and glory in the fullness of time to judge the living and the dead, to consummate history and the eternal plan of God (John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 4:15; Isaiah 53:3‐6; Acts 4:10‐12; Matthew 26:63‐64; 2 Timothy 4:1).
The value and dignity of all humankind: originally created in God’s image to live in love and holiness, but who became alienated from God and each other because of sin and guilt, and who are justly subject to the judgment of God (Genesis 1:26‐27; Colossians 1:21; John 12:47‐48).
The justification, by God’s grace, of all who repent and put their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation (Ephesians 2:8‐10; John 3:16‐17; Romans 4:4‐5).
The present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling and transforming power the Christian is enabled to live out our new life and new calling to evangelism and discipleship of believers within the fellowship of the church (John 16:7; 1 Corinthians 6:19‐20; Galatians 5:22‐23; Matthew 28:18‐20).
The spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, with equality across racial, gender and class differences (John 17:20‐23; Revelation 5:9).
The passages of Scripture associated with each of the statements are not offered as proof texts; rather, they are intended to serve as a beginning place for further study.
All speakers on our annual curriculum have agreed to The MomCo Faith Position Statement and are aware of our Core Ministry Values. While we agree on the basics of faith, we acknowledge that speakers may have differing views on issues unrelated to salvation. Using speakers for our annual curriculum does not signify an endorsement by MomCo.
MINISTRY VALUES
Under God, MomCo embraces the following values statements, which we hold to be essential to the foundation of our Ministry.
DIGNITY:
We value every life and welcome every mom of young children, no matter where she has been, what she has done or how she is choosing to live her life today. Because every mom has value, we reach out to include believers and nonbelievers in our gatherings regardless of race, cultural group, socioeconomic or marital status. Ps 139:13-18, Eph 2:10
MOTHERING:
We promote the value of mothering for its contribution to individuals, children, society at large and future generations. Prov 22:6, Deut 6:6-7
WOMEN:
We play our part in inspiring and equipping women to become all that God has designed them to be, each one with her unique skills and passion. Prov 31:10-31, II Tim 1:6-7
RELATIONSHIPS:
Through the actions and words of true friendship, we build communities that encourage one another. In expressing our beliefs, we provide opportunity for every mom to explore a personal relationship with Jesus Christ when she is ready. Hebrews 10:24-25, I Peter 3:15
MENTORING:
We lean into the wisdom of mothers who are ahead of us on this journey and welcome their participation and instruction. Titus 2:4-5
SEXUALITY & MARRIAGE:
We believe God created human beings as male and female, and that in His design, sexual expression is reserved for the marriage covenant between one man and one woman as husband and wife, in exclusive fidelity to each other in a lifelong union. Unmarried people are called to abstinence and are an important part of the community. We welcome all moms to our gatherings, regardless of their agreement with our belief on this topic. Gen 2:21-24, Matt 19:4-6
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT:
We value the equipping of women, volunteer leaders, field staff, employees and board members to gain skill and confidence in their leadership ability, to understand their influence in the family, community and world, and to guide others in relationship evangelism and spiritual growth. I Peter 5:2-3, Matt 28:18-20
LEADERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS:
Leaders will declare a personal relationship with Jesus and the intent to grow in spiritual maturity demonstrated by godly character, behavior and attitudes as described in scripture, and will support The MomCo Faith & Values statements. Col 3:1-17
DOWNLOAD THE MOMCO MINISTRY AGREEMENT
FINANCIAL COMMITMENT
1. Startup Fee
I understand the completion of the Ministry Agreement requires an initial startup fee paid to The MomCo at time of agreement submission.
2. Annual Renewal
I understand it is the responsibility of the leader/organization to renew annually with The MomCo. Annual Renewal fees include access to resources and cover all meetups charted under the leader/organization. Ministry Agreements dated December 1 – March 31 will be auto-renewed by The MomCo and will not be charged for their first renewal.
3. Membership Registration
I understand annual membership registration with MomCo is required for all moms, leaders and mentors. This membership supports participating moms, leaders and mentors with valuable support, encouragement and resources.
LEADERSHIP TRAINING
This meetup exists as a part of your local organization’s or leader’s ministry. The leadership of this local meetup is charged with and accepts the responsibility of encouraging, equipping and developing mothers to bring them one step closer to Jesus. MomCo makes available certain materials, live events, curriculum and support to assist the local leadership in these tasks. The leadership of this local meetup understands that The MomCo leadership training is not all-inclusive. It does not include comprehensive training in personnel practices and procedures, or hiring/selecting child care workers or other personnel.
OWNERSHIP AND RETURN OF MOMCO MATERIALS
It is agreed that The MomCo name and logo, meetup resources/materials created and or produced by MomCo and access to online meetup management are owned solely and exclusively by MomCo. The name and logo, online meetup management, meetup resources/materials created and or produced by MomCo can only be used while a current Ministry Agreement is in effect. Such use shall be confined solely to the publicity for and identification of activities sponsored by The MomCo meetup, except as specifically authorized in writing by The MomCo.
Authorized Logo Use for The MomCo
The MomCo logo can be downloaded from The MomCo Leaders’ site. The MomCo meetup may use the name and logo while a current Ministry Agreement is in effect. Such use should be confined solely to the publicity and identification of activities sponsored by the meetup, except as specifically authorized in writing by The MomCo. Additional authorization is not needed for logo use when producing publicity materials like posters, flyers, banners, websites, business cards, etc. Additional authorizations are required for logo use on proprietary materials that could be distributed or sold, including, but not limited to, the following items: tote bags, clothing, cookbooks, handbooks, pins, promotional items, stationery, etc. Any exception to this policy must be prearranged through The MomCo by submitting the Request for Authorization form. To request permission to use our logo, please email: logo@themom.co. The logo should only be used as is and not altered in any artistic manner. Avoid distortions, embellishments or other modifications to the logo or wordmark. These change the character of the design and diminish the consistent image The MomCo strives to project.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE MOMCO AND THE MEETUP
-
This meetup and The MomCo acknowledge and agree that:
-
The meetup is an independent receiver of materials and services provided by MomCo as long as the Ministry Agreement is in effect.
-
MomCo is an independent provider of materials and services to the
-
The local meetup is not a division, section or department of
-
Personnel involved in the meetup are volunteers, not employees or staff of MomCo.
-
-
The meetup shall be solely responsible and completely liable for any and all aspects of the local meetup. The meetup shall indemnify and hold MomCo harmless from and against all claims, damages and liabilities arising out of the meetup including claims by or against leader/organization, its members, officers, leaders, participants, employees and volunteers of the local meetup, whether members of the meetup or The meetup shall be solely responsible and liable for all recruiting, screening, training and supervising of volunteers or paid staff involved in the leader/organization’s meetup. This includes liability for all personnel matters concerning any volunteers, leaders, staff and including without limitation, child care providers involved in the meetup. The meetup acknowledges that it is solely responsible for establishing and carrying out any policies that are deemed necessary and appropriate for the safety of children and adults during the meeting and for complying with all applicable statutes, regulations and laws of the state/province/county in which the meetup resides.
AGREEMENTS SURVIVE MODIFICATIONS, RENEWAL, NO WAIVER OF BREACH
Once this Ministry Agreement is approved by MomCo, it becomes the agreement applicable to the leader/organization. It is agreed that all representations and statements contained in or attached to this agreement shall survive its approval. Once approved, this agreement may only be modified by written agreement signed by the CEO of MomCo. The parties’ respective rights and obligations as set forth in this Ministry Agreement shall continue in full force and effect upon the renewal of the Ministry Agreement by MomCo except to the extent that they are changed or modified by MomCo. If agreement is breached and MomCo does not give notice of or seek to remedy this breach, this shall not prevent The MomCo from subsequently acting upon that breach or another breach.
JESUS FOLLOWERS John 14:6 We are compelled by the movement of Jesus Christ and invite others to explore their own faith journey toward him. ADVOCATES Proverbs 31:8-9 We are passionate proponents for the value of motherhood and the influence of women. KINGDOM ENTHUSIASTS Matthew 6:23 We believe in God’s redemtive work in the world which encourages us to be playful in spirit, generous at heart and faith-filled in confession. EXPANSIVE Revelation 22:17 Every mom has a place with us. We uphold a bodness of inclusion because we know there is room for a vast collage of women who thirst for Jesus. KNOWN BY WHAT WE ARE FOR Matthew 22:36-40 We look to Jesus’ footsteps for how to walk through the world, which allows us to be radically gracious in expression and association. SISTERHOOD CULTIVATORS Hebrews 10:25 We build circles of women who love each other like family, because we believe in the transformative potential of relationships and mentoring. MULTILINGUAL 1 Corinthians 9:22 We lead communication of a timeless message to a culture of many voices, dialects and backgrounds.
OUR MISSION
MomCo encourages and equips moms of young children to realize their potential as mothers, women and leaders, in relationship with Jesus, and in partnership with the local church.
STATEMENT OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER
The MomCo is a community of like-minded Christian believers who serve the mission of the organization as its representatives, including all of the directors, officers, employees and volunteers, each of whom are an integral part of the community.
MomCo maintains this faith-based community as an exercise of its Christian beliefs and as an expression of these beliefs to the larger community. In addition, MomCo subscribes to the Christian belief that all of its activities should express and render service to God.
Under God, MomCo embraces the following statements of faith, which we hold to be essential to the foundation of our Ministry.
STATEMENTS OF FAITH
The only true God, the sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all things, existing eternally in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Deut 6:4‐5; Acts 17:24‐28; 2 Cor 13:14).
The divine inspiration, entire trustworthiness and authority of the Bible in faith and practice (2 Peter 1:20‐21; 2 Tim 3:16‐17; Psalm 119:9‐11, 105; 1 Thes 2:13).
The full deity and humanity of Jesus Christ, who lived as a perfect example, who atoned for the sins of the world at the cross, who was bodily raised from the dead and ascended as both Lord and Savior, and who will return in power and glory in the fullness of time to judge the living and the dead, to consummate history and the eternal plan of God (John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 4:15; Isaiah 53:3‐6; Acts 4:10‐12; Matthew 26:63‐64; 2 Timothy 4:1).
The value and dignity of all humankind: originally created in God’s image to live in love and holiness, but who became alienated from God and each other because of sin and guilt, and who are justly subject to the judgment of God (Genesis 1:26‐27; Colossians 1:21; John 12:47‐48).
The justification, by God’s grace, of all who repent and put their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation (Ephesians 2:8‐10; John 3:16‐17; Romans 4:4‐5).
The present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling and transforming power the Christian is enabled to live out our new life and new calling to evangelism and discipleship of believers within the fellowship of the church (John 16:7; 1 Corinthians 6:19‐20; Galatians 5:22‐23; Matthew 28:18‐20).
The spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, with equality across racial, gender and class differences (John 17:20‐23; Revelation 5:9).
The passages of Scripture associated with each of the statements are not offered as proof texts; rather, they are intended to serve as a beginning place for further study.
All speakers on our annual curriculum have agreed to The MomCo Faith Position Statement and are aware of our Core Ministry Values. While we agree on the basics of faith, we acknowledge that speakers may have differing views on issues unrelated to salvation. Using speakers for our annual curriculum does not signify an endorsement by MomCo.
MINISTRY VALUES
Under God, MomCo embraces the following values statements, which we hold to be essential to the foundation of our Ministry.
DIGNITY:
We value every life and welcome every mom of young children, no matter where she has been, what she has done or how she is choosing to live her life today. Because every mom has value, we reach out to include believers and nonbelievers in our gatherings regardless of race, cultural group, socioeconomic or marital status. Ps 139:13-18, Eph 2:10
MOTHERING:
We promote the value of mothering for its contribution to individuals, children, society at large and future generations. Prov 22:6, Deut 6:6-7
WOMEN:
We play our part in inspiring and equipping women to become all that God has designed them to be, each one with her unique skills and passion. Prov 31:10-31, II Tim 1:6-7
RELATIONSHIPS:
Through the actions and words of true friendship, we build communities that encourage one another. In expressing our beliefs, we provide opportunity for every mom to explore a personal relationship with Jesus Christ when she is ready. Hebrews 10:24-25, I Peter 3:15
MENTORING:
We lean into the wisdom of mothers who are ahead of us on this journey and welcome their participation and instruction. Titus 2:4-5
SEXUALITY & MARRIAGE:
We believe God created human beings as male and female, and that in His design, sexual expression is reserved for the marriage covenant between one man and one woman as husband and wife, in exclusive fidelity to each other in a lifelong union. Unmarried people are called to abstinence and are an important part of the community. We welcome all moms to our gatherings, regardless of their agreement with our belief on this topic. Gen 2:21-24, Matt 19:4-6
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT:
We value the equipping of women, volunteer leaders, field staff, employees and board members to gain skill and confidence in their leadership ability, to understand their influence in the family, community and world, and to guide others in relationship evangelism and spiritual growth. I Peter 5:2-3, Matt 28:18-20
LEADERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS:
Leaders will declare a personal relationship with Jesus and the intent to grow in spiritual maturity demonstrated by godly character, behavior and attitudes as described in scripture, and will support The MomCo Faith & Values statements. Col 3:1-17
DOWNLOAD THE MOMCO MINISTRY AGREEMENT
FINANCIAL COMMITMENT
1. Startup Fee
I understand the completion of the Ministry Agreement requires an initial startup fee paid to The MomCo at time of agreement submission.
2. Annual Renewal
I understand it is the responsibility of the leader/organization to renew annually with The MomCo. Annual Renewal fees include access to resources and cover all meetups charted under the leader/organization. Ministry Agreements dated December 1 – March 31 will be auto-renewed by The MomCo and will not be charged for their first renewal.
3. Membership Registration
I understand annual membership registration with MomCo is required for all moms, leaders and mentors. This membership supports participating moms, leaders and mentors with valuable support, encouragement and resources.
LEADERSHIP TRAINING
This meetup exists as a part of your local organization’s or leader’s ministry. The leadership of this local meetup is charged with and accepts the responsibility of encouraging, equipping and developing mothers to bring them one step closer to Jesus. MomCo makes available certain materials, live events, curriculum and support to assist the local leadership in these tasks. The leadership of this local meetup understands that The MomCo leadership training is not all-inclusive. It does not include comprehensive training in personnel practices and procedures, or hiring/selecting child care workers or other personnel.
OWNERSHIP AND RETURN OF MOMCO MATERIALS
It is agreed that The MomCo name and logo, meetup resources/materials created and or produced by MomCo and access to online meetup management are owned solely and exclusively by MomCo. The name and logo, online meetup management, meetup resources/materials created and or produced by MomCo can only be used while a current Ministry Agreement is in effect. Such use shall be confined solely to the publicity for and identification of activities sponsored by The MomCo meetup, except as specifically authorized in writing by The MomCo.
Authorized Logo Use for The MomCo
The MomCo logo can be downloaded from The MomCo Leaders’ site. The MomCo meetup may use the name and logo while a current Ministry Agreement is in effect. Such use should be confined solely to the publicity and identification of activities sponsored by the meetup, except as specifically authorized in writing by The MomCo. Additional authorization is not needed for logo use when producing publicity materials like posters, flyers, banners, websites, business cards, etc. Additional authorizations are required for logo use on proprietary materials that could be distributed or sold, including, but not limited to, the following items: tote bags, clothing, cookbooks, handbooks, pins, promotional items, stationery, etc. Any exception to this policy must be prearranged through The MomCo by submitting the Request for Authorization form. To request permission to use our logo, please email: logo@themom.co. The logo should only be used as is and not altered in any artistic manner. Avoid distortions, embellishments or other modifications to the logo or wordmark. These change the character of the design and diminish the consistent image The MomCo strives to project.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE MOMCO AND THE MEETUP
-
This meetup and The MomCo acknowledge and agree that:
-
The meetup is an independent receiver of materials and services provided by MomCo as long as the Ministry Agreement is in effect.
-
MomCo is an independent provider of materials and services to the
-
The local meetup is not a division, section or department of
-
Personnel involved in the meetup are volunteers, not employees or staff of MomCo.
-
-
The meetup shall be solely responsible and completely liable for any and all aspects of the local meetup. The meetup shall indemnify and hold MomCo harmless from and against all claims, damages and liabilities arising out of the meetup including claims by or against leader/organization, its members, officers, leaders, participants, employees and volunteers of the local meetup, whether members of the meetup or The meetup shall be solely responsible and liable for all recruiting, screening, training and supervising of volunteers or paid staff involved in the leader/organization’s meetup. This includes liability for all personnel matters concerning any volunteers, leaders, staff and including without limitation, child care providers involved in the meetup. The meetup acknowledges that it is solely responsible for establishing and carrying out any policies that are deemed necessary and appropriate for the safety of children and adults during the meeting and for complying with all applicable statutes, regulations and laws of the state/province/county in which the meetup resides.
AGREEMENTS SURVIVE MODIFICATIONS, RENEWAL, NO WAIVER OF BREACH
Once this Ministry Agreement is approved by MomCo, it becomes the agreement applicable to the leader/organization. It is agreed that all representations and statements contained in or attached to this agreement shall survive its approval. Once approved, this agreement may only be modified by written agreement signed by the CEO of MomCo. The parties’ respective rights and obligations as set forth in this Ministry Agreement shall continue in full force and effect upon the renewal of the Ministry Agreement by MomCo except to the extent that they are changed or modified by MomCo. If agreement is breached and MomCo does not give notice of or seek to remedy this breach, this shall not prevent The MomCo from subsequently acting upon that breach or another breach.
973. Eight women in Wheat Ridge, CO, started meeting at a local church to support each other in mothering. Over time, this group became MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), dedicated to helping moms reach their potential in the name of Jesus Christ. 1970s. New MOPS groups begin forming in churches throughout the country. 1988. MOPS expands beyond U.S. borders into Canada and is renamed MOPS International. AT A GLANCE Our History 1990s. MOPS creates a variety of new resources to aid mothers, including MomSense newsletter, MomSense radio program and a MOPS website. 2000. MOPS launches a membership program to ensure a personal touch with each mom and to provide a sustainable f inancial model. 2009. MOPS expands to include moms of school-age kids through MOMSnext and launches in Brazil, Latin American, Russia and India. 2016. Mandy Arioto is named MOPS CEO and President. 2020. COVID-19 pandemic begins. Online groups and Coordinator Cohorts begin as new ways to connect moms and leaders around the world. 2022. MOPS now reaches moms in 72 countries and Volume 2 of the Global Curriculum is translated into 17 languages across the globe. 2023. MOPS celebrates its 50th anniversary, reaching into 92 countries around the world. 2024. MOPS rebrands to become MomCo to enable ministry to future generation of moms.
The MomCo Experience The MomCo by MOPS International is the world’s largest outreach ministries to moms. You are part of a pioneering movement; a mom community. And, we know that when you reach and resource the mom, you can change the world. We have watched for decades as the marketing industry harnesses the attention and influence of moms across every business sector. Major brands allocate time and resources to focus on harnessing the influence of moms. “Motherhood Today,” a Barna study completed in 2023, in partnership with The MomCo, includes groundbreaking data challenging long-held assumptions about moms. The study found that “congregations and organizations have much to gain if they intentionally represent, empower, and partner with mothers.” but you already know that, don’t you? We believe when you reach and resource the mom, you can change the world. Reaching moms through The MomCo is exponential evangelism, when a mom comes to know Jesus, chances are her kids will, too. What we are seeing sparked around the globe in the next Jesus movement is starting with one of the most overlooked groups of people: moms. The core of every MomCo meetup encourages and equips moms of young children to realize their potential as mothers, women and leaders in relationship with Jesus and in partnership with the local church. What does that look like in your Mom Community? Leading MomCo is about three things: Number one: Welcoming moms. Welcome every mom, as she is. You know your community, so consider how best to welcome the moms you see every day. This welcome begins with a personal invitation. Look around you, the grocery store, the library, the park and invite her. Go to where she is and invite her using language she can relate to, then as each woman comes in, you get to know her and celebrate her. I know it can feel risky to invite others into our space. Sometimes people are too needy, talkative or quiet. They might ask us to sacrifice our time or space in a way that is inconvenient or uncomfortable. Jesus radically welcomed each person he encountered. He sat around the table with the shunned; he shared water and conversation with a woman who couldn’t find someone to walk to the well with her; he invited himself into homes others wanted nothing to do with. That was the kind of welcome Jesus demonstrated. It can also feel risky to walk into a room and ask for space at someone else’s table. Be prepared for everyone who shows up, whether they are there for the first time or the hundredth time. Meet her at the door and guide her to childcare and help her find a seat next to a new friend. You set the stage for fun, encouragement, learning and deeper relationships. It is not expensive or elaborate, but it lets each woman know you’ve been waiting for her. Number Two: We give women room to grow. Your MomCo meetup has the power to transform a room of women into a sisterhood, bound together by a common thread. It should be a place where exploration, growth and transformation take shape. But we have to prepare and lead in a way that allows for that to happen. This kind of radical transformation begins with an invitation and continues as we spend time together, jumping in and working through some of the new experiences we encounter on this mom journey. The time spent in your meeting gives each mom the chance to sit back and consider her role as a woman, wife, mom, daughter, sister and friend. The intent is to help her find some practical support in her day-to-day and encouragement to try something new. Plan meetings around topics every mom can identify with and consider the rhythm of your time together. Have some fun but don’t shy away from the deeper, more thought-provoking topics or spiritual discussions. Help women understand the foundation for your hope, while still making them feel welcome, no matter what they believe. She’ll be glad that you don’t talk down to her or assume things about her, but rather you get to know her as she gets to know you. A woman needs others to help her figure out this whole mothering thing, and she needs the opportunity to dig into conversations and activities that build her confidence. Because she has the support of you and those around her, she can step out into the world – even when it feels risky. Third, we connect. Deep in every heart is a longing for friendship, understanding and a relationship with our Creator. And he created us to be in relationship with other people. In our society, we have dozens of ways to connect on a surface level, but a safe space to think, speak and ask questions is hard to find. As you stand around the coffee table, sit in your discussion group, play at a park between meetings, or meet online you have the opportunity to engage in real face-to-face conversations where you share the pieces of your story and the way your relationship with Jesus influences your decisions. When a mom is sleep-deprived and feeling like what she does every day doesn’t matter, you get to remind her that the tasks that seem so mundane are really life-changing, future-building thing You get to lean in when she shares about the messy decisions in her past. You get to cheer her on with each brave step she and her growing child make. When you take the time to call the mom who misses a meeting or that you know has something significant going on during the week – whether its good or bad – she knows she belongs. As you think about your group, ask yourself this question. What do we want to be known for? When women walk out the door, what do we want them to remember the most? When you break it all down to the basics, most groups will say that they want a group where women feel like they belong, they want a safe space where women can learn something new and they want to give women a chance to connect with each other. We want to help each woman embrace the unexpected and the imperfect as she forges her unique path through motherhood. MomCo leadership is about your willingness to show up and share your imperfections so that others can be honest about their own. That kind of connection and vulnerability from you opens the door so that when a woman wonders about Jesus and how much he loves her, you have set the perfect table for that discussion. What you need as a leader matters. LeaderCo is here to develop you, too, but as the leader, consider your group from the mom’s perspective. As you focus on understanding what each mom sees, feels, hears and needs, you will create the kind of space that allows women to feel like they belong, that encourages brave and honest conversations, and that leads to opportunities for you to share stories of Jesus. At The MomCo, we raise our kids and one another, boldly elevate motherhood, embrace the unexpected & imperfect. As moms and leaders, we understand our direction is more important than our speed, so we celebrate often and loudly. We let it be known that every mom has a place with us as we follow Jesus and invite others to journey with us. So, leader, what do you want to be known for?
AT MOMCO, WE ARE ON A MISSION to celebrate motherhood. Every mom loves a personal invitation. What mom friends could you invite to your MomCo group? Are there moms at a park, church, playgroup or class you attend that you could invite? Whether it’s a personal invitation or posting a flyer about your group, here are • preschools • libraries • rec centers • YMCAs • children’s activity centers • ice cream shops • churches • community or f itness centers • hair and nail salons • post offices • coffee shops • restaurants • DMV • indoor sports complexes • bookstores • VBS • women’s Bible studies • AWANA • banks • drop-in child care • women’s shelters • pregnancy resource centers We’re building circles of women who love each other like family, because raising humans is beautiful and hard, and having each other to lean on is life-giving. That’s why we connect with moms, all over the world, to a community of women, in their own cities, who meet together to laugh, cry and embrace the journey of being a mom. To best reach the women in your community, we’ve created some helpful tools to use when inviting moms to join you on this journey. Make business or invite cards and hand them out to other Leaders and moms interested in attending your group so they can invite their friends as well. Printable invite cards are available on the MomCo Leader’s site. After you’ve read The MomCo Journal, put a sticker with your group’s information over your address and give it to another mom or leave it in a place where another mom will find it. FINDING MOMS IN THE COMMUNITY • Start a MomCo Facebook page. Use MomCo as the first word in your page’s name to make it visible for moms searching for groups in your area. Make sure to maintain it – share MomCo posts and your group’s meetings days. Join other local Facebook pages and advertise your group there. • Get involved in community events. Host a table at a festival, farmers market, community fair or family event. Provide a diaper changing or nursing station for moms attending the event.FINDING MOMS IN THE COMMUNITY (continued) • Have a craft day during a MomCo meeting and sell your crafts at a local craft fair while promoting MomCo. • Host a table at a food truck event. • March in a local parade. Ask moms to bring strollers and wagons for kids or make a float for them to ride during the parade. P.S. IT’S ALWAYS NICE TO HAND OUT MEMORABLE GOODIES AT EVENTS. Whether it’s a small plastic bag with Hershey’s Kisses or a travel first aid kit, little things go a long way and make a great first impression. Don’t forget to attach your group’s information to these items. 1 Host a “Touch a Truck” event where moms can bring their kids to see and touch trucks in their community such as 7 Turn inviting moms into a service project or a challenge for your group. f iretrucks, ambulances, police cars, bulldozers, farm equipment, boom trucks, etc. Advertise with invite cards and flyers. 2 Post a yer at dentist offices, health clinics, urgent cares, therapists/counselors, OB-GYNs, hospitals or pediatrician offices. 3 4 5 6 Host a parking lot party with bikes and scooters for kids or a “Trunk or Treat” event at the end of October. Provide child care for a church date night. Pass out invite cards or goodies to all moms. This could also be a great fundraiser idea! Host a “Popsicles in the Park” event. Advertise and pass out invite cards or a memorable goodie to the moms. Have a scavenger hunt within your group, competing to see who can post the most f lyers during a specific time. Remember to take pictures to determine a winner. Challenge each mom to invite one mom, then hold a “come and see” meeting for new moms to check out MOPS. 8 9 10 11 12 Utilize local newspaper and radio to advertise your group within your community. Advertise your group in your local Macaroni Kid (national.macaronikid.com), meetup.com or Facebook community pages. Partner with local businesses and have them post flyers in exchange for publicity on your group’s Facebook page. Encourage the moms in your group to invite a mom based on the meeting’s topic. Gift a MomCo Membership to a mom; let her know that all she has to do is show up to a meeting!FINDING MOMS IN THE CHURCH MOMCO SUNDAY Ask the church to have MomCo Sunday to highlight the MomCo Ministry during worship service. MomCo Sunday can be an opportunity to get the word out about your group before it starts, or toward the end of the year to highlight the impact of your group. This provides an opportunity to invite moms in the congregation, while also informing the congregation about one of their outreach ministries. This is also a great opportunity for MomCo Leaders to invite current MOPS moms in their group to a church service. Don’t forget to mention their families are welcome to attend, too! IN-SERVICE OPTIONS MomCo Sunday can be tailored to fit the needs of your congregation. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate MOPS Sunday into a regular service. ANY OF THESE OPTIONS COMMUNICATES TO YOUR CHURCH: •MomCo helps mothers be the best they can be. •MomCo grows mothers as leaders. •MomCo grows the church. •MomCo brings mothers and families to Jesus. • Ask to make an announcement during services or show the theme video to promote your group. • List your group in the church’s bulletin, have a table in the foyer with flyers and registration forms. • Ask the pastor to network with other churches in the area and see if they can help spread the word about the group. • List your group on any church media locations like the church’s website, Facebook page, Twitter or Instagram. • Hang a MomCo banner outside the church. • Hand out flyers during children’s Sunday school, AWANA or put in backpacks at the church’s preschool. • Promote your group at women’s ministry groups, recovery ministries and other ministries that reach moms and possible mentors. • Around Mother’s Day, do something special for the moms in the congregation. Hand out carnations with a business card or small piece of paper with your group’s information attached. A SERVICE DEDICATED SOLELY TO MOMS, MOTHERING AND YOUR MOPS GROUP. • Share a MomCo video — What MOPS is and how it impacts your church and community. You can create your own or use one of ours: youtube.com/MOPSint. • Invite MomCo Kids to sing a song or have a MomCo mom lead the worship music. • Invite MomCo Mentors to pray or read scriptures. • Have the message for the day based on the annual MomCo theme. You can find more about the theme at mops.org/theme. • Include testimonies, live or video, of moms, husbands or children impacted by MomCo. • Give the congregation an opportunity to support MomCo by donating money for scholarships, Leader training or child care expenses. SHARE THE IMPACT OF MOPS IN 10 MINUTES. • Share a MomCo video — What MOPS is and how it impacts your church and community. You can create your own or use one of ours: youtube.com/MOPSint. • Have one or two moms from your group share their story of how MomCo has impacted their lives. Also, consider having a husband share how MomCo has positively impacted his wife and family. WHEN YOU ONLY HAVE A FEW MINUTES. • Share a MomCo video — What MomCo is and how it impacts your church and community. You can create your own or use one of ours: youtube.com/MOPSint. AS A FULL SERVICE AS A PART OF A SERVICE VIDEO ONLY YOUR CHURCH CAN HELP PUBLICIZE YOUR MOMCO GROUP.WHO CAN SHARE THE STORY OF MOMCO? The most impactful way to share the importance of MomCois to invite those involved to share their stories. If you have been involved in a group before, share how MomCoimpacted your life. If you’ve never been involved in a group, share what your hopes and goals are for this new group. THINGS TO CONSIDER SHARING: • Do any of your moms have a story about how MomCohas made a difference in her life – how she or her family came to know Jesus through MomCo? (Table Leaders can point you to a mom with a great story.) • Have MomCo Kids Coordinators ask children, “Why is your mom the best mom in the world?” or “Why do you like coming to MomCo?” • Ask Mentors, “What is the best part of supporting moms at MomCo?” or “What is the best timeless advice moms need to hear?” MOMCO INFORMATION TABLE Combine a MomCo information table with your MomCo Sunday service option. Hand out flyers or invite cards. Set up a video camera at a MomCo meeting and ask moms to say, “Thank you!” Have the video running on a laptop. Have Leaders available to answer questions and say, “Thank you” to church members who support your group. HOST A LAUNCH PARTY This can be an informational night as well as a way to register moms for Membership. Explain what MomCo is, what a typical meeting looks like, why you are starting the group and what your goals are. Let moms see the meeting space and MomCo Kids meeting space. Be kid friendly, use the theme video and display a MomCo Membership Kit. Answer questions and invite moms to attend the first meeting and register for Membership.
