ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Mothers know that being the mom to a preschooler can require a lot of time and be a lot of work. Take into account pressures that come with the military lifestyle, such as deployments and moving to new places, and moms may need a break. The chapel-sponsored Military Mothers of Preschoolers, or MOPS, program offers moms such an opportunity.
"Military families face unique circumstances," said Leigh Thornley, MOPS at Andrews co-founder and wife of Chaplain, Capt. Andrew Thornley, 316th Wing protestant chaplain. "As moms, we sometimes have extra 'duties' while our warriors are away, so we may need friendship, encouragement, a feeling of belonging and a place to go. The military trains and equips our warriors and it is our hope is the same for mothers: to train and equip them."
Capt. Brandon Parker, 316th Wing protestant chaplain and religious education coordinator agrees, "MOPS is an important and unique program in that it recognizes that the years from pregnancy through kindergarten are foundational in a mother-child relationship and are filled with unique needs. A MOPS group is a place where moms can come -- just as they are -- to build friendships, receive mothering support, practical help and spiritual hope."
"We want to be able to provide all moms -- whether active-duty military, spouses, and civilians with base-access -- an opportunity to be refreshed, encouraged, and equipped to be a better mom."
Meetings are the 4th Monday of the month and are specifically designed to build relationships through teaching, discussion groups, creative activities and fellowship time over dinner. Chaplain Parker said moms needing assistance with childcare, either because dad is deployed or the MOPS member is a single mom, can enroll their children in the MOPPETS program, a program designed to minister to children.
The MOPS group also has special activities planned, including field trips for moms and their children, moms night out, and a moms-only Bible study starting in January.
"MOPS serves 110,000 mothers of preschoolers worldwide from all walks of life, and exists to encourage, equip and develop every mother of preschoolers. "The Chapel started this group because we believe it can really make a difference for our military members and their families," said Chaplain Parker.
The first MOPS at Andrews meeting is Monday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. at Chapel 3.