Table of contents

1. Vigidity of the clause "actus formalis defectionis ab ecclesia catholica" - 2. Content, procedures and effects of the formal act of abandonment of the Church - 2. a) Internal content of the formal act - 2. b) Necessary procedures - 2. b. 1) Valid external manifestation - 2. b. 2) Receipt by the competent ecclesiastical authority - 2. c) The effects of the formal act of abandonment - 2. c. 1) The criminal effects - 2. c. 2) The disciplinary effects - 3. Overall assessment of the legislation - 3. a) Negative aspects indicated by the Church authority - 3. b) Discussed but globally consistent aspects

Keywords

Church membership; formal act of abandonment; religious freedom