The MomCo hosted a play date Friday at LHUMC.
Moms of Pre-Schoolers, known as MOPS to generations of dedicated mothers, is kicking off 2024 by adopting a new name and casting a wider net. The organization which previously focused on supporting new moms will now also welcome mothers of school-aged children and be called The MomCo, short for The Mom Community.
The MomCo is an international organization and local women’s ministry of Lake Highlands United Methodist Church. Their goal is to provide a nurturing environment where moms can come together to build friendships, feel supported and understood, learn and grow both personally and spiritually, and have a safe environment for their children to play and learn about the love of Jesus.
Meredith Sauer is lead coordinator for the organization in Lake Highlands and says the name change will clear up confusion for moms who believed they timed out when their kids were old enough to head off to school.
“We want to reach more moms and be more inclusive,” Sauer told me Friday during a MomCo event on the LHUMC playground. “We’re open to moms from the time they are pregnant through the school years.”
Sauer said early motherhood can be a time of isolation and loneliness for many. The MomCo strives to create a sense of community — and fun.
“For me, this group has been a lifeline,” she said. “We can do life together and build friendships and have honest conversations about what motherhood looks like and what works for each of us.”
The MomCo meets in the Great Hall at LHUMC seven Friday mornings per semester during the school year from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and childcare is available for a nominal fee. Gatherings include fellowship time, brunch and speakers, with topics including parenting, marriage and personal growth. Members also gather for play dates, book club, Mom’s Night Out and more.
Social Chair Hayley Douvros said members enjoy their time together discussing the highs — and lows — of motherhood. It’s important to know you’re not alone, she said.
“This group gives me a chance to take a break and spend some time with women in the same season of life. It gives me a chance to be poured into and to pour into others.”
If you’re interested in joining The MomCo, click here to register or email themomco@lhumc.com for more information. Spots are limited, and dues are $100 per semester.
