'Joy in Motherhood'

Mothers of Preschoolers, more commonly known as MOPS, is an international movement that focuses on mothers supporting mothers. A chapter is coming to the area, as Perryville Family Church will hold MOPS meetings beginning in September.

Thanks to Elizabeth Ward, wife of Pastor Kent Ward, and her team, mothers will have a place to gather monthly and find inspiration as they embrace what they deem one of the most important roles in life.

Ward has wanted to start a local MOPS group for a long time, and shared her vision with several mothers.

"We had a heart for the community," she said, but until now, it just did not seem like the right time. Finally, one of the women, Jessica Ohlendorf, a big part of this undertaking, told her, "I'm ready if you're ready, so let's do it."

Starting the second Thursday of September, they'll be doing it.

Jonah Ward watches his brother, Kingston, perform a Yo-Yo trick Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015, at Perryville Family Church. (Glenn Landberg)

But why? Why would a group of mothers meet together from 6 to 8 p.m. once a month?

"There is always a need for moms to be encouraged," Ward said, adding that she felt it was time "to share that there is joy in motherhood" and to show them that there is support. "Sometimes, it seems like such a lonely place -- to be a mom." But, she said, "We're not alone. Many moms are going through the same things."

The goal of Perryville MOPS is to help each mother "be a thriving mom."

"There's encouragement, and we can rally together and see that we become thriving mothers. We want to raise up a generation of great children." To do that, she asserted, women must "embrace the role of being a mother."

Each season of MOPS will run from September to May to correspond with the school year. The theme for the 2015-2016 year is "Fierce Flourishing."

Holly Moran reads with her daughter, Elsie, Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015, at Perryville Family Church. (Glenn Landberg)

"Fierce means relentless, and flourishing means to thrive, so we just want to show moms that they can be powerful as a mother and that they can thrive with their children. ... We give them hope in that."

Mothers of children from birth through kindergarten are welcome to participate. Ward envisions a group of women of all different backgrounds, unified in their purpose to connect, grow and encourage.

Though held at Perryville Family Church, MOPS is not limited to people of faith.

"This is for moms of all different backgrounds, not necessarily church backgrounds." Ward added that this is "kind of an aside from the church." All races, religions and those of no religion are welcome.

"Just moms; that's the qualification," Ward stated.

Kent Ward, pastor at Perryville Family Church, poses for a photo with his wife, Elizabeth, and their children, Kingston, Elijah and Jonah, Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015. (Glenn Landberg)

Sometimes, mothers are reluctant to step away from their responsibilities and do something new, something for themselves. But Ward encourages them to give MOPS a try. "All moms need a support system," she said. "It's just good to be a network of women. Encouragement is huge in order for us to keep doing what we're doing every day. ... Sometimes you feel exhausted and need a break." So to the hesitant participant, she said, "You never know if you don't try."

The annual membership fee to the MOPS organization is $24.95, which includes "a welcome kit containing "A Fierce Flourishing Guidebook," a bracelet, a print, an annual subscription to "Hello, Dearest" magazine and more. Additionally, the Perryville chapter is asking for $3 per meeting -- which is suggested, not required.

Ward said if the membership fee is a challenge, scholarships may be available. Childcare is available at each MOPS gathering.

The group has a Facebook page, where additional information may be found: facebook.com/groups/MOPSatPFC.