First United Methodist Church, West Lafayette, Indiana
Thursday, February 23, 2012
 Teen MOPS at First UMC
First United Methodist Church of West Lafayette is dedicated to meeting the needs of teenage girls in our community who find themselves trying to fill the role of "mom" while they are still growing up themselves.
First United Methodist Church is proud to host one of the 100 Teen MOPS groups in the United States and Canada. We are chartered by MOPS International to provide a faith-based, supportive, nonjudgmental environment where teen moms can come together for support and encouragement. In Teen MOPS, the teaching, activities, and friendships are all focused on the very distinct needs of teenagers. Teen MOPS helps teen moms become more self sufficient, confident, mature, giving, and self-aware young women. We are called…
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is one of the most well-known women of all time. She was also a teen mom facing an unplanned pregnancy. We know the story; we hear it every Christmas season. As you think of Mary, think of three things:
1. Mary was chosen for a big task, one for which she was not at all prepared.
2. Mary no doubt faced criticism from people around her.
3. Mary found someone to turn to: a friend who could help her to succeed in her new role. It was Mary’s older cousin, Elizabeth.
Elizabeth played an important part in Mary’s life. In fact, Mary lived with her older cousin for three months. Elizabeth was the first to rejoice over the child Mary held within her womb, and we imagine Elizabeth was there to encourage Mary as she coped with the idea of becoming a teen mom.
Like Mary, each of us have had people in our lives who we have turned to for help, support, and encouragement. Some may have cheered us on, some may have guided our parenting, others may have just been there to walk along side us. The mother of our Lord and Savior turned to Elizabeth. Teen mothers of our county are turning to us for support. They come through court order, agency referral, or through word of mouth. Help us help them using Elizabeth as our example. As Christians, this is our calling.
 And We Need Your Help... |
 Teen MOPS offers…Biblically-based teaching by women past their teen years who
can share insights on motherhood, child rearing, relationships, and other topics of interest to teen moms. Discussion groups in an open, caring atmosphere where moms are free to share their ideas and feelings with each other. The opportunity to express creativity through crafts and life skills.
Leadership training and development.
A chance to be with other teen moms who share similar circumstances.
A place of encouragement, where motherhood is valued and women are special, no matter what their status, education, or personal issues.
The opportunity to build friendships with MOPS Mentors.
The safe and positive environment of MOPPETS for children to receive Christian love and teaching.
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