FAQ

FAQ about MOPS @ Crossroads

Do I have to attend Crossroads Church to be a part of Crossroads MOPS?
No! Crossroads MOPS is open to anyone who wants to find friendship, encouragement, and resources in their mothering journey.

Who can attend?
We are geared towards mothers of children ages birth thru Kindergarten. The onsite childcare program (MOPS Kids) accommodates children ages 6 months and older. Infants may stay with their mothers during meetings. 

Can I bring my child(ren) to the meeting?

Absolutely! Moms are encouraged to bring their newborns to the meeting; furthermore, it’s a comfortable place for breast-feeding mothers. A nursery is provided for children starting at 6 months of age.

Can I come visit before joining? 
Yes! If you want to check MOPS out and see how it runs, you get 1 "free" meeting with no commitment.  After that, if you decide that you love it and want to stay, we ask that you pay the dues.


Who do I sit with?
Moms are placed at tables where they sit for the year with their small group. These tables enable community among moms and provide a safe place for moms to find rest, encouragement, and friendships. Small groups also have Table leaders who facilitate discussion time, plan outside group events and play dates as well as communicate with the group outside of meetings.

Is MOPS a Bible Study?

No, Crossroads 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.

For those moms wanting to go deeper and study the Bible with other moms, Crossroads Church offers studies throughout the year; visit http://crossroadsgrace.org for more information.

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, meal planning, photography, and faith formation. Each year's speakers are different and aim to reflect the needs of the group.

How do I register?
Head over to the registration page! You'll find more information and the registration link.

What do registration fees go towards?
We are a chartering ministry of MOPS International.  Through membership, you can make it possible for moms all around the world to get the support of MOPS!  The $32 registration fee to MOPS International registers you with the organization. 

Local dues pay for on-site MOPS Kids childcare worker stipends and materials, craft materials, celebration gifts, speaker thank you gifts, paper products, coffee, decorations, and scholarships for moms in need. 

Where do I park/go for MOPS meetings?

Crossroads MOPS meets upstairs in the Great Room of Crossroads church. There is a large parking lot in front of the entrance off 1505 Moffat Blvd.  Once inside the church, moms will direct you to the  nursery, preschool rooms, and the Meeting Room upstairs in the building.

Who brings all the food to the MOPS meeting?

Each table will be assigned to several meetings to bring food and beverages. Coffee is also provided by the church.  Sometimes we also have donations from area restaurants.

My daughter threw up this morning, but I could really use a break. Can I still come?

We would love to have you come to the meeting, but we would ask that you find alternate childcare for your child. Although missing a meeting is not desirable, bringing a sick child to the nursery will expose many other children to your child's illness. Your consideration of other children in this scenario is appreciated.

Do moms come to your meetings before they have babies?

Yes, expectant moms and/or adopting moms are welcome to come to the meetings. Joining MOPS is a great way to get some much needed tips before becoming a parent.

Would it be awkward to come without a baby?

Not at all. Most moms put their child in the nursery when they are old enough, mostly 6+ months old; in fact, the majority of mothers in our meetings do not have a child with them. Newborns stay with their moms in the meetings until moms feel comfortable putting them in the nursery. We have a childcare program called "MOPS Kids" to provide Bible lessons to our little ones while we have some much needed adult time!

Do you have any adoptive parents in your group?

Throughout our years together, we've had both biological and adoptive mothers join MOPS. All moms are welcome!

About what percentage are first time moms?

You can expect to find a large number of women who are first-time mothers in our group. You will also find women who have three children (or more, in some cases) or are still expecting their first child! Regardless of how many children you have, you are welcome to join us as we learn to mother these preschoolers together! 

Do you have a Facebook page? 

Yes, we do! Our group is called:  MOPS @ Crossroads in Manteca

We also have our closed group with the same name.  This is only for Crossroads MOPS mothers.  The intent of this group is to help us connect and build relationships.  Are you going to the park?  Post and see if anyone wants to join!  Looking for reliable childcare?  Ask advice here!  Want to have a Mom’s Night Out?  Invite our moms!

Find it here

I would like to be on the Leadership Team.  How can I do that?

One of the unique aspects of MOPS is the opportunity for moms to further develop their leadership skills.  There may be openings on the hospitality and craft team that might fit your interest areas.  Please e-mail here if you are interested in any team positions. 

What if I have a personal situation I’d like to share with someone in MOPS and ask for their prayer support, etc.?

The purpose of MOPS is “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."  MOPS is the perfect place to receive that love and support you might need at a certain difficult time in your life.  Our Leadership Team and our Mentor Moms are an excellent resource for prayer and support.   Please feel free to also share it with your Table Leader, Mentor Mom and/or Leadership Team member with whom you feel comfortable.  They will assist you in any way possible and pray for you.  If you’d like, they can notify the other Leadership Team members to be praying for your prayer request as well.  Your request will be kept confidential among the Leadership Team and not discussed with others.  We would consider it a privilege to pray for you and your family.