FishHawk resident Haley Pate knows that being a mom is hard work. That is why she joined the MOPS group at FishHawk Fellowship Church when she moved to the area from out of state and the mom of two now has a group of 75 local women to her support when she needs it most.
“MOPS is an international Christian non-profit that works to inspire and empower women as they seek to be the best mothers possible,” said Pate.
Groups meet all over the world in hospitals, churches, YMCAs, homes and on military bases to offer moms of young children the chance to meet and support each other.
The FishHawk group is open to all moms, meets twice a month from September to May and is always accepting new members.
“We gather moms for community, encouragement, faith and relationships,” said Pate, who explained that the group was a life saver for her. “We strive to make each mom feel refreshed and rejuvenated during this crazy season of life raising the next generation.”
Child care for children from six months to five years old is provided during meetings which always start with breakfast, a word of encouragement from a mentor mom and roundtable conversations. Meetings also include speakers, service projects, crafts, games and other activities are planned regularly including mom’s nights out and play dates.
“We go beyond just play dates,” said Pate. “Our theme for this year is ‘Find Your Fire’ and we hope to help moms reignite their passions, because momming is hard.”
“I came in at a time I was new to the area, didn’t have any family nearby, and was longing to make some real relationships with people in my new home,” said Pate. “They have given me a true sense of family and are willing to help any time I need it.”
Membership fees are $60 a year, payable at the time of registration, which includes membership to both the international and local groups.
The FishHawk group meets at FishHawk Fellowship Church, located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd., on the first and third Tuesday of the month from September to May at 9:30 a.m.
For more information, visit www.mops.org or www.fishhawkfc.org/ministries/mops.
