When Jason and Andrea Morrison arrived in the Czech Republic 19 years ago, the pain of political upheaval was still raw, and ministry looked a lot different than it does today. Statistics show the Czech Republic has a disproportionately high number of people who don’t believe in God, but Andrea has found that younger generations of Czechs ask different faith questions and are open to spirituality. In light of this, Andrea has seized the opportunity to share the love and gospel of Christ with dozens of moms in the city of Kolín.

Two years ago the local church in Kolín relaunched a MOPS club (Mothers of Preschoolers), and part of that program includes a short section for the kids in English. This component uniquely allows Christians to establish relationships with people in the community. Andrea says moms are eager for their kids to hear from a native English speaker, which has helped her to build relationships with moms from the community and share her faith. “Through the MOPS club,” she explains, “I get to interact primarily with secular, unchurched moms who do not know who Jesus is and are usually suspicious of the church and faith.”

Niki came to MOPS because she heard about the English program for kids. In conversation, Niki shared a secret she had never told anyone: She was what Andrea would consider a “closet believer.” She was afraid to tell others about her faith because of what they might think. Although she believed in God, her faith is still developing. Andrea was taken aback when Niki told her, “I believe in God, but I’m not sure about Jesus.” This type of comment excited Andrea, because Niki was earnestly seeking answers. Niki left that meeting full of joy and anticipation for what the future holds. As she left, she told Andrea, “This place is a refuge for my soul.”

For many moms who find themselves at faith crossroads, this local church club can be that soul refuge—a safe place where kids play while moms seeks answers.