The Catholic Church defines belonging and participation through incorporation into the Body of Christ, emphasizing both visible and spiritual dimensions. This involves adherence to the Church's teachings, sacramental life, and active engagement in its mission 1 2 3.

Here's a breakdown:

Belonging to the Church

• Incorporation into Christ: Baptism is the foundational sacrament that incorporates individuals into the Church, making them members of the Body of Christ 4 5. This incorporation transcends natural and human limits, creating one People of God 4.
• Visible and Spiritual Bonds: Full incorporation involves possessing the Spirit of Christ, accepting the means of salvation offered by the Church, and adhering to its organization 2. Visible bonds include profession of faith, participation in the sacraments, acceptance of ecclesiastical governance, and communion with the Church 1 2 6.
• Necessity of Charity: While one may be incorporated into the Church, perseverance in charity is essential for salvation 1 2. Remaining in the Church in a merely "bodily" manner, without heartfelt charity, is insufficient for salvation 1 2.

Participation in the Church

• Active Engagement: Participation goes beyond formal membership and involves constant prayer, active participation in the liturgy (especially the Eucharist), regular reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and the discernment and exercise of gifts received from the Holy Spirit 3.
• Mission and Diakonia: Active engagement in the Church’s mission and diakonia (service) is a crucial aspect of participation 3. This includes accepting the Church’s teachings on faith and morals, following God’s commands, and being willing to both correct and accept correction from fellow members 3.
• Sacramental Life: The daily sacramental life of the Church, especially the Holy Eucharist, is fundamental to purification and renewal 7 8. Participation in these mysteries and personal prayer provides the strength needed for the Church’s mission 7 8.
• Lay Apostolate: The laity have a specific role in the Church’s saving mission, contributing through their unique gifts and living in union with Christ 9. Their spirituality is sacramentally based, and they are commissioned through Baptism and Confirmation to participate in the Church's mission 10.
• Active Participation in the Eucharist: The Second Vatican Council emphasized the active, full, and fruitful participation of all in the Eucharistic celebration 11. This participation is not mere external activity but a conscious, active, and devout engagement in the sacred action, связывающая с повседневной жизнью 11. The faithful are encouraged to offer themselves, along with the immaculate Victim, and to be drawn into greater union with God and each other 11.
• Evangelization: All members of the People of God are called to evangelization, spreading and defending the faith as true witnesses of Christ 12.

The Laity and Their Role

• Renewal of the Temporal Order: The laity contribute to the renewal of the temporal order and have a special part to play in the birth of a new humanism, defined by responsibility towards others and history 10.
• Witness in Daily Life: Lay people evangelize and sanctify others through their presence and actions in everyday life, renewing society with Christian values 13.
• Marriage and Family Life: Christian marriage and family life are vital, serving as a foundation for both human society and the Church 13. The seeds of faith and love are planted and nourished within the "domestic church" 13.
• Cooperation with Pastors: Lay faithful take on commitments in cooperation with bishops, priests, and deacons, contributing to various areas of ecclesial life, such as liturgical services and youth guidance 14.

In summary, belonging to the Church involves both visible and spiritual incorporation through faith, sacraments, and governance, while participation entails active engagement in the Church's mission, sacramental life, and daily living in accordance with Christian values.