6What Matters for Children and Families is patterned after What Matters to You? Matters to Us, a resource developed by the Congregational Vitality Initiative of the United Church of Christ (UCC), providing essential reflections on core themes of the UCC. Eight writers, representing several different family heritages, created this edition especially for church leaders, parents, and caregivers who minister to children ages 12 and younger. It will teach them how to initiate meaningful conversations through which children can grasp the vision and values of the UCC. Six central themes invite engagement: 1) We Are People of God's Extravagant Welcome 2) We Belong to Christ 3) We Are One at Baptism and the Table 4) We Are People of Covenant 5) We Thank God by Working for a Just and Loving World 6) We Listen for a Still-speaking God Includes Bible stories, questions for reflection, suggestions for children's literature that illustrates core UCC values, ideas for family activities, and prayers that reflect the diversity of the UCC.