Did this linen cloth cover Jesus' body after His Crucifixion? Is it proof of His Resurrection? For centuries these questions that have been asked by theologians, historians, scientists and millions of pilgrims.
What is agreed on is that the Shroud reflects wounds that are consistent with those endured by Jesus during the Crucifixion, as described in the Gospel...and the linen cloth also has blood stains on it.
ENRICO SIMONATO
Shroud Museum
'Through tests on the material, it was determined that the Shroud has human blood on it. It was also established that the type of blood is type AB.â?
Yet still there's no consensus on its origin or how the image of a bearded man was imprinted on the cloth.
Now the Shroud is on public display in the Basilica of Turin. Covered in a temperature controlled glass cover, for two months, the 14 foot long cloth is expected to be seen by more than 2 million pilgrims.
It's one of the most scrutinized objects in Christianity. The last test carried out in 1978, suggested the cloth probably dates back to the 1300's. Not all experts agree.
GIAN MARIA ZACCONE
Scientific Director of the Holy Shroud Museum
'For many believers it's a way to engage in a conversation about the Passion of Christ and His love. For others it is a way to reflect on suffering, violence, evil etc...â?
The Church has not officially endorsed nor denied the authenticity of the Shroud, focusing instead on the spiritual reflection it triggers.
GIAN MARIA ZACCONE
Scientific Director of the Holy Shroud Museum
'Years ago, a Bishop responded, I don't know if this Shroud has risen people from the dead, but what I can say is that the faith of many dead souls came to life before the Shroud.â?
This marks the fifth public exhibit of the Shroud since 1933. It's a way to mark 200 years since the birth of St. John Bosco. In fact, Pope Francis is planning on praying before the Shroud on June 21st. There is no entrance fee, but reservations are mandatory in order to control the flow of visitors.
The Shroud will be on display until June 24th.
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