[1] Pius begins by addressing the hostility to the church throughout the world and particularly in Italy with the Piedmontese government.

The Pope carries out an energetic condemnation on those ecclesiastics and "certain condemnable societies" of clergy who, with the approval of the government of Piedmont and the Parliament, were in open contempt against the Holy See and spreading false doctrine.

[2] Beginning by rebuking the belief that eternal salvation could be attained even while "living in error and alienated from the true faith and Catholic unity," Pius recognizes that there are "those who are struggling with invincible ignorance about our most holy religion.

Sincerely observing the natural law and its precepts inscribed by God on all hearts and ready to obey God, they live honest lives and are able to attain eternal life by the efficacious virtue of divine light and grace.

[1] The encyclical gives praise for those clergy, consecrated virgins, and people of Italy who have remained faithful and ends on a hopeful note.