COVID-MOPS FAQs
How will a typical meeting run?
Meetings will be held in the morning at UPC at 9:30 AM, and on Zoom at 7:30 PM. You will receive a meeting link and pertinent questions or materials prior to the meeting. The meeting will open 15 minutes before the start time for meet & greet. The actual meeting will include: Announcements & Prayer (approx 10 minutes), a video &/or speaker (approx 20 min) and group discussion time (approx 1 hr).
In the past, I've been assigned to a table. Will there be anything like this?
Yes! You will be assigned to a consistent group for discussion time. There will be "break out" groups with your individual groups, similar to tables. Each group will have 4-5 moms and a faciliatator (a mom with kids older than baby/preschool age).
Can I switch between morning and evening times?
We'd like to encourage everyone to stick with the time you signed up for to promote getting to know the folks in your group. We will have the material (videos, speakers, etc) available on the blog.
What about childcare?
We do have childcare! Please check in with Steering ahead of time to discuss and coordinate!
Can I watch the video meeting later if I can't make it one week?
Yes! Some videos will actually be available ahead of time via email. And when we have speakers, the videos will be available on the blog.
COVID-19 Precautions
We have the option to attend via Zoom and we are currently requiring masks for all attendees.
ZOOM Meeting Tips & Tricks
While not a "question" here are a few tips and tricks to meeting virtually.
- Please mute yourself when not talking. This helps eliminate background noise, etc.
- Please keep in mind where you are "meeting" and helping to create a safe and relatively private environment. If a partner or kid will be nearby, we recommend using earphones.
- It's totally fine to be "in & out" of meetings - we understand that you are a mom first & foremost and being at home means you might need to tend to needs of your family.
- Be aware that the phone zoom app works a little bit differently than by computer. If you are using your phone, we recommend playing around with the features and possibly googling how to maximize your time.
- When utlizing chat, you can select either the entire group or sending a private chat to an individual.
- Keyboard shortcuts include:
Alt + H = Personal Chat
Alt + V = Share/Stop Video
Why is the cost during COVID less?
During this time when we can't offer childcare, costs are less than during past MOPS (see below for the breakdown).
Is it possible to join mid-year/Can we join anytime?
In order to build community intentionally, we are asking that only those who have registered participate. We have typically offered a mid-year registration and anticipate doing so again this year.
"NORMAL" MOPS FAQs
If you haven't been part of MOPS in years past, we want to give you a glimpse of what things will hopefully look like again one of these days when we can gather together!
Nope. UPC MOPS is open to anyone who wants to find friendship, encouragement, and resources in their mothering journey.
Is MOPS only for mothers with preschool-aged children?
MOPS is geared towards mothers of children ages birth thru preschool. Many of our mothers, however, also have older children, too. The onsite childcare program (MOPS Kids) accommodates children ages 6 months-preschool. Infants younger than 6 months may stay with their mothers during meetings.
What does a typical meeting look like?
Warm breakfast is always provided! Mothers sit at assigned tables of about 8 women. We host speakers who speak to a variety of issues relevant and important to mothers of young children. There is time after the speaker to discuss and share with the women sitting at the table.
Who do I sit with?
Moms are placed at tables where they sit for the year. These tables enable community among moms and provide a safe place for moms to find rest, encouragement, and friendships. Table groups also have Table Leaders who facilitate discussion time, as well as communicate with the group outside of meetings. Each table also has a Mentor Mom, a seasoned mother who graciously shares her time and offers encouragement to the mothers at her table. Mentor Moms hold babies, listen unconditionally, and pray for the mothers at their table.
Is MOPS a Bible study?
No, UPC MOPS is not a Bible study. We are faith-based and this belief is a part of our meetings. Our mission is aligned with that of MOPS International: to encourage, equip and develop every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother and leader in the name of Jesus Christ. Therefore, our meeting time is spent providing respite, resources, and fellowship to mothers so that they can feel rejuvenated and prepared for the rewarding, but sometimes exhausting, work of being a mother.
What kinds of speakers do you have?
We try our best to find speakers who will best address issues relevant to our moms. Past speakers have spoken on topics like marriage, parenting preschoolers, kids and sexuality, body image, and faith formation. We also have practical topics like photography, organizing, and storytelling. Each year's speakers are different and aim to reflect the needs of the group.
How do I register?
Contact us to see if registration is open! We'd love to have you!
How much does UPC MOPS cost?
The total cost for the entire year is $175. $32 is an annual registration fee to the International MOPS organization. To ease financial burdens, we have provided the option to pay in two installments (a deposit when registering, the rest later in the year).
Please don't let finances get in the way of joining something incredible. We have partial scholarships readily available. Please email kims@upc.org for more information.
What do registration fees go towards?
The $32 registration fee to MOPS International registers you with the organization. You will receive a small welcome package, encouraging emails, and a magazine from MOPS International. Local dues pay for on-site childcare, speakers, paper products, coffee, and decorations.
