Friday, May 25, 2007

THE REAL REASON FOR M.O.M.S.

M.O.M.S.(Mother’s Offering Mutual Support)
May 11, 2006 - May 24, 2007

With the desire and dedication to bring a moms group to Calvary Church, M.O.M.S. held its first meeting on May 11, 2006. God faithfully set everything in motion to ensure that we had all the support we needed to begin such an endeavor. The enthusiasm and support of many moms that stepped into leadership roles made this ministry a reality.

Our mission statement is simple – Celebrate the season of motherhood. Providing support, encouragement and wisdom by partnering with other mothers and mentors. Our foundational scripture is "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6 and "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Our first year has been a testament to God’s covering of this ministry and our dependance and surrender to His guidance and wisdom. We truly give God the praise and glory for the success of our inaugural year. We would like to share some of the comments from the moms that were impacted by M.O.M.S.

FROM OUR MOMS......
"I never imagined that I would be touched by so many women in such a short period of time. I do believe that God placed Karen at my table in Bible study for a reason. I was at a low period in my life and needed some support/answers/guidance. Karen was there for me, she had faith in me that I could be a mentor in the MOMS group. It was at this time that God picked me up out of the desert and placed me with such incredible women of faith, and that helped me get to where I am today. I am truly blessed by all the leaders of MOMS group." Kelly

"What M.O.M.S group means to me: A safe place in which to share frustrations, joys, concerns regarding being a wife and mother. Much needed fellowship, without any kids! Most important, the prayer support and encouragement from other mom's in the group. Thank you for the courage to start up this new group. It has meant a lot to me." Heather

So many times, I feel like I fall short. Perfection? I'll settle for competence in just a couple of my varied roles as a woman, wife, mother, friend, sister, daughter. Walking into Room 235 on Thursday mornings. the pressures of life seems to fall away just for a couple of hours. It feels great to walk into a room full of familiar faces knowing that these women, they understand like no one else can. I also love the fact that I come away from every MOMS Group meeting feeling just a little more whole. If my husband, kids, neighbors, customers sees me as a little kinder, a bit wiser and a little more encouraging, it's because I have taken away just a bit of the kindness, wisdom and encouragement from the other Mothers Offering Mutual Support. I very much appreciate that being a part of MOMS Group helps me connect with wonderful women in sometimes unexpected, but always meaningful ways.
Thanks Karen for helping to bring together this amazing group of women who remind me that it's all about connecting to other people. To sit, slow down and listen again, for I still have so much to learn. Much admiration. Joy


The great thing about MOMS is that it is accomplishing what it was supposed to--giving support to Moms! MOMS is really a kind of extended family. Even those that don't know each other will reach out during times of trials or celebrations. It's nice to know that I have people I can count on. Also, being part of the group makes me want to reach out to others more. Whether we are having serious discussion, prayer, or laughing during crafts, I know everyone is there to lift each other up. The best part is that this is just the beginning! Thank you, Karen for starting such a wonderful group. Alison

MAY 24 - MOMS CELEBRATION BANQUET






Thursday, May 24 we celebrated our one year anniversary together with a clothing exchange and thank you ceremony for our leaders and childcare workers. What an awesome breakfast buffet we had which was catered by Tasha from Calvary's very own Food Service Ministry! We were served Egg Strata, Hashbrown casserole, Praline french toast, fresh fruit, mini bagels with cream cheese, coffee, juice and water. To top it off we had a 7 layer chocolate cake for dessert.

It was such a special day and we had racks and racks of clothing to choose from. Thank you so much to all of you who made this year a great success! TO GOD BE THE GLORY GREAT THINGS HE HAS DONE!!!