apostacy

Assalamo 'Alaykom, I have a really important question that I believe needs to be discussed. I have a friend who seems to be interested in converting to islam. The more she gets to know about the religion the more she loves it. I'm sure whenever she's ready she will convert, Insha'Allah. This is my question though; yesterday she emails me to ask me about the Afghani man who was sentenced to death for converting out of Islam? She is seriously bothered by that. This is what she asked exactly, quoting her "is that really true that Islam is THAT cruel? I don't believe that - that is NOT the picture I have of Islam! As far as I know, Islam does permit different faiths ... and if he felt he had to convert while here in Germany - why on earth is he enticed to die?" I don't know what to tell her. I wouldn't want to say something that'll scare her away. I'll admit, I don't get it myself. What is the wisdom behind the execution for converting out for Islam? I really would love to understand. Jazakom Allah Khayran.

Respected scholars ASA WR BRR. My sister, who is now about 40 years old have become an apostate, she says "i tried and it gave me nothing", i have tried for years now to explain to her the wrong path she's taking but to no vain. I cant stand seeing her living like this, so after all this years i decided 6 months ago to cut all ties with her. My question is, have i done the correct thing considering Surah Muhammad aya 22? JAK

If a Muslim leaves Islam, what do Muslims call him? And what is the Islamic prescribed sentence for the one who leaves Islam. Please send me as soon as possible. Thank you very much.