2024 Website News


These are the items that were included on the "Late Breaking Website News" page in 2024. Items are listed with the most recent one first, and each article carries the posting date indicating when it was first uploaded. You should find this an interesting look at the important Shroud and Website events in 2024.

You can also view every previous year's Website News pages at the links below:

Archived Website News pages: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996

Fall Update! December 7, 2024

Since the Summer Update, the Shroud has been very prominent in the News. At the Catholic National Eucharistic Congress held in Indianapolis, Indiana on July 17-21, a Shroud exhibit put together by the “Othonia” group of the Ateneo Pontificio Regina Apostolorum in Rome, which many people waited hours to visit. “The Chosen” actor Jonathan Roumie was given an individual tour of the exhibit.

In late August, a flurry of Shroud stories, many of which dealt with the resurfacing of the news from 2022 regarding a new dating technique known as “Wide Angle X-Ray Scattering”, which indicated that the Shroud was about 2,000 years old. There was also new research concerning the blood, that the Shroud wrapped a man who had been severely tortured. More recently, there has been a claim by a Brazilian graphics expert who asserts that the his research proves the Shroud is a forgery.

Before I took over as editor of shroud.com, I was sending out a weekly email posting about the latest Shroud news, books, articles, videos, etc. Apart from Lent/Easter season, most of my postings generally had 10-15 items per week. Since this flurry of stories came out in late August, the number of items has ballooned to about 20-40 items per week. I still send out these weekly postings, so if you would like to be added to the list, send me an email at JMarino240@aol.com. Everyone on the list is blind-copied, and one can request at any time to be removed from the list. It's a good way to keep with the latest on the Shroud happenings between the periodic shroud.com updates.

We lead off with updated information about an International Shroud conference to be held in St. Louis, Missouri on July 30 - August 3, 2025. It will be the first major Shroud conference in North America since the 2019 conference held in Ancaster, Ontario, CANADA. The conference had tentatively been planned at a hotel, but negotiations are being held with a national Catholic organization that recently bought a 250-acre complex only about 20 minutes from the St. Louis airport. More information will be given in my weekly email postings as mentioned above and also on the conference web site.

There is of course, a plethora of new books, papers, articles, videos, etc. found on the Internet and in print. Also there is a new issue of Sindon, in English and Italian, published by the International Center of Studies in Turin.

One last note: Barrie always did his once-a-year fundraising event in this November update. We recently posted information about Barrie and information about ways to help keep his legacy and work alive, which I will reproduce below.

In memory of the amazing Barrie Schwortz, we have recently added an IN MEMORIAM page in his honor. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEMORIAM PAGE.

Although we miss him tremendously, Barrie Schwortz leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories and a profound impact on the world of shroud research and photography. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.

Barrie Schwortz's legacy will endure through his contributions to science, his captivating photographs, and the countless lives he touched. CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR GROWING LIST OF DONORS AND SUPPORTERS.

You too can become an important part in sharing his life's work with the world. CLICK HERE TO KEEP BARRIE'S LEGACY ALIVE

Enjoy your visit!

Here is the Update Table of Contents:

Posted December 7, 2024

Latest News on the 2025 Shroud Conference in St. Louis


Posted December 7, 2024

Recently Published Papers & Articles

Shroud Of Turin: What Happened To Jesus Christ's Human Body After Death?
by Giulio Fanti

There are 27 new papers added to the website in today's update! All have also been permanently archived on the Scientific Papers & Articles page (alphabetically by title) and the Website Library page (alphabetically by author) or, when appropriate, on the Religion and Philosophy page (alphabetically by title) and the Website Library page (alphabetically by author). Since there are far too many to include on this page, we are only including one here and have once again created a separate pdf file that includes all of the links and descriptions listed chronologically, with the most recent paper at the top of the list, all in a single file that you can download and view at your convenience (see link below).

Posted December 7, 2024

Recently Published Books

Recently Published Books

A number of new Shroud related books were published since our last update so we are listing them here and have also permanently archived the new titles on the Shroud of Turin Booklist page (alphabetically by author). To make it easy to find the newest additions, we have annotated the listings with "(Added 7 DEC 2024)" so you can simply search for that phrase on the Booklist page should you forget the titles.

Fraud Of Turin by James Francis Day

Here is the online description:

"What more is there to add about the Shroud of Turin? The linen cloth with the faint image of the crucified Jesus in the position of burial is perhaps more popular today than at any other time. But the Shroud unlocks for us another world, a forgotten world. THE FRAUD OF TURIN, written by Catholic writer James Day, objectively reviews the evidence for a medieval creation, but it is written for religious believers, art lovers, and history buffs showing just how all consuming the Passion of Jesus Christ was to the medieval mind. What emerges is an epic journey with crusaders to Jerusalem's Holy Sepulcher, into Arthurian lore and the search for the Holy Grail, and across the Black Sea into mysterious Constantinople. James Day boldly sets out to find the truth of the world's most famous religious artifact."

Publisher: Trine Day (October 15, 2024)
Language: English
Paperback: 200 pages
ISBN-10: 1634244753
ISBN-13: 978-1634244756


History's Greatest Mystery: The Improbable Convergence of Four Images of Christ by Paul F. Caranci

Here is the online description:

"It is the most studied cloth in history. But is the Shroud of Turin simply a worthless fabric or is it a compelling chronicle of the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ? History's Greatest Mystery: The Improbable Convergence of Four Images of Christ offers compelling evidence of the authenticity of the Shroud. By comparing and contrasting the evidence on the Shroud with that contained on two other historical pieces of fabric, the Veil of Veronica held in Manoppello, Italy, and the Sudarium of Oviedo secured in Oviedo, Spain, author and historian Paul F. Caranci begins to unravel the mystery. Using the plethora of available research into these cloths, and even unlocking information from some of the more obscure studies, the author offers a gripping argument for the Shroud's legitimacy. Further, Caranci demonstrates how the image of Divine Mercy, an early 20th-century painting directed by the hand of God, and centuries of Eucharistic Miracles, support the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin as containing evidence of both the passion and death of Jesus, as well as His glorious Resurrection."

Publisher: Stillwater River Publications (October 5, 2024)
Language: English
Paperback: 282 pages
ISBN-10: 1965733050
ISBN-13: 979-8888510186


The Shroud of Turin:: a Miracle or a Masterpiece? by Solomon Elias Carrington

Here is the online description:

"Discover the Truth Behind the World's Most Controversial Relic. Is the Shroud of Turin the true burial cloth of Jesus Christ, or is it history's most convincing hoax? The Shroud of Turin: Miracle or Masterpiece? by Solomon Elias Carrington is your ultimate guide to unraveling the mysteries that have baffled scientists, historians, and theologians for centuries. Dive deep into the heart of this enigmatic relic as Carrington expertly navigates through its fascinating history, from its first appearance in medieval France to the latest cutting-edge scientific investigations. Explore the gripping stories of miraculous healings, medieval forgeries, and fiery debates that have kept the Shroud at the center of religious and historical controversy. Packed with compelling analysis, intriguing facts, and thought-provoking insights, this book challenges you to question what you believe and invites you to explore the fine line between faith and evidence. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this will captivate your imagination and leave you pondering the possibilities long after you've turned the final page."

Publisher: Independently published (August 27, 2024)
Language: English
Paperback: 208 pages
ISBN-13: 979-8337522487


Jesus Christ's Shroud of Turin: A Scientific and Historical Investigation by Jeston Punnyman

Excerpt from the online description:

"For centuries, the Turin Shroud has fascinated millions, sparking intense debate, curiosity, and devotion. This enigmatic artifact has captivated the imagination of people from all walks of life, from scholars and scientists to believers and skeptics. Is it the authentic burial cloth of Jesus Christ, bearing witness to the most pivotal moment in human history? Or is it a masterful medieval forgery, crafted to deceive and manipulate? Embark on a captivating journey as we delve into the rich history of the Shroud, from its mysterious origins in the 14th century to the latest scientific discoveries that have shed new light on its age and significance. Explore the intricate web of faith and science that has evolved around this iconic relic, and discover the symbolism and meaning that has made it an enduring symbol of hope, inspiration, and reverence."

Publisher: Independently published (August 23, 2024)
Language: English
Paperback: 55 pages
ISBN-13: 979-8336714173


Sindone: un mistero millenario by Liberato De Caro

Excerpt from the online description:

"La Sindone di Torino, il famoso lenzuolo di lino che secondo la tradizione ha avvolto il corpo flagellato di Gesù Cristo, rimane un affascinante mistero. Nonostante molti credano che si tratti di un clamoroso falso medievale, resta un oggetto misterioso e pieno di significato che affascina gli uomini di ogni tempo e si presta al confronto con la scienza in tutte le sue branche, dalla fisica delle particelle alla medicina trasfusionale, dalla genetica all'ottica, dalla palinologia alla numismatica. Questo libro è un'indagine sui più recenti e importanti risultati della ricerca sulla Sindone: la nuova datazione di un campione del Santo Lenzuolo, ottenuta attraverso l'uso dei raggi X, ha mostrato che dovrebbe avere 2.000 anni e ha anche indicato una possibile nuova ipotesi per ricostruirne la storia nascosta prima del suo arrivo in Europa."

Data di pubblicazione: 28 maggio 2024
Language: Italiano
Pagine: 208 + 16 pp. immagini
ISBN-13: 979-1254781371


The Shroud of Turin for Kids: An Introduction for Everyone by Diane Princehouse

Here is the online description:

"A simple and clear introduction to the Shroud of Turin--the single most-studied artifact in history! Written especially for young readers with easy-to-understand language and full color pictures. An enjoyable beginner's guide to everything about the mysterious Shroud of Turin."

Publisher: Independently published (December 9, 2023)
Language: English
Paperback: 74 pages
ISBN-13: 979-8871241745




The Burial Shroud as it relates to Jesus: Colored edition by Arthur T. Cabanban

Excerpt from the online description:

"Starting from the Last Supper among Jesus and his disciples, journey with an ancient yet humble piece of linen cloth steeped in history of epic proportions as author Arthur T. Cabanban demonstrates how Christ's burial shroud traveled from Jerusalem to Turin. From pre-Nicene writings of early church fathers to scientific investigations that include everything from carbon dating to 3-D imaging, this well-researched book documents a variety of topics relating to the burial shroud of Jesus, including the final days of Christ, his trial, scourging, and crucifixion. The miracle that is the historic journey of the Shroud of Turin, when buttressed by both scripture and the photographic and anecdotal evidence of God's continuing work of miracles in the modern world, will speak to the hearts and minds of readers everywhere."

Publisher: Arthur T. Cabanban (November 20, 2017)
Language: English
Paperback: 92 pages
ISBN-10: 0692955444
ISBN-13: 978-0692955444



Posted December 7, 2024

Shroud Related Videos and Audios

Host Mike Creavey interviews Emanuela Marinelli and Tristan Casabianca about the 1988 C-14 dating

There continues to be dozens of new Shroud videos each month. We can only highlight some of them here. For anyone who wants to see additional ones, my weekly email list has even more than found here. Everyone on the list is blind-copied and one can request at any time to be removed from the list. To be added, send me an email at JMarino240@aol.com .

Today's update includes a huge selection of links to interviews with or presentations by many notable Shroud scholars, from both scientific and religious points of view.

Posted December 7, 2024

The Shroud on the Internet

Dale Glover (Real Seekers)
Shroud Explorations - Discover The World's Greatest Unsolved Mystery Of All Time

Although this section is not as extensive as the videos and audios section mentioned above, there are still multiple pages of links to new internet content in today's update! Of course, we can't include everything on this page, so we have once again created a separate pdf file that includes all of the links and descriptions in a single file that you can download and view at your convenience (see link below). Items in that file are listed in chronological order with the most recent at the top of the list.

Posted December 7, 2024

And In Other News...

3 UPCOMING EVENTS

NEWMAN LECTURE - SCIENCE AND THE FACE OF GOD - PRESENTED BY FR. ROBERT SPITZER, S.J. - SCHEDULED FOR WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2025 (CORVALLIS, OREGON) - DESCRIPTION: OSU Newman's 2025 Winter Term Lecture will be presented by Fr. Robert Spitzer. As President of the Magis Center from 2009 to the present, Fr. Spitzer has led the effort to create the largest science-based “faith and reason” institute in the U.S., producing parish programs, catechetical and youth ministry programs, and web-based resources. He was President of Gonzaga University from 1998 to 2009. During that time, he increased the programs and curricula in faith, ethics, service, and leadership.

Event at the Museum of the Bible: Shroud of Turin: Exploring the World's Greatest Unknown Mystery - SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2025. DESCRIPTION: “Come engage with one of the most mysterious artifacts known to exist: a linen cloth that bears the inexplicable image of a crucified man who was also beaten and crowned with thorns. From the perspectives of faith and reason, international Shroud scholars Father Peter B. Mangum and Dr. Cheryl White help unravel what is known - and still unknown - about the Shroud of Turin.”

Facebook posting by sindonologist Tristan Casabianca - Description: Event! Great debate to find out who created the #Suire of Turin! Monday, December 16th at 20:00 at the Saint Leon Theater in Paris! I'll debate it alongside Olivier Bonnassies vs. two supporters of the false medieval. I'll wait for you there, whatever your opinion is! #shroud #ShroudOfTurin. To reserve your place: https://my.weezevent.com/resurrection-du-christ-faux-du...


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RECENT EVENTS

(4 articles/postings regarding the Cicero Moraes recent paper claiming that 3D evidence shows the Shroud is a forgery)

Do New 3D Software Programs Invalidate the Shroud?
by Russ Breault - November 16, 2024

A research paper was recently published by Cicero Moraes of Brazil in the SSRN Journal (10-29-24) entitled Image Formation on the Shroud of Turin- a Digital 3D Approach. The focus of his paper is to discuss how certain new digital software techniques have been used to emulate how the Shroud of Turin was wrapped around a three-dimensional human form and whether it could be the result of an actual body or only a work of an artist.

While the techniques employed are new, they offer very little new information that we didn't already know from all the experiments that were done in preparation for the Shroud of Turin Research Project (STURP) in 1978 and subsequent research following the project's conclusions rendered in 1981.

The extreme either-or proposition continues to perplex researchers, even those using the latest technologies. The key proposition is that the Shroud is either the actual burial cloth of Jesus or it isn't, and if it isn't, then what is it? It must be to work of an artist, or the work of human effort as the fraud of the millennium. However, the work of the Shroud Project was clear that there is no visible trace of paint, ink, dye, pigment, or stain to be found on the linen. Secondly, the image is purely superficial and penetrates only the top one to two microfibers of the cloth, not threads. Each thread is composed of approximately 200 microfibers, meaning the image penetrates only about 1% of a single thread. Adding to the complexity is that the image density is the same wherever it is observed either on the front image or the dorsal image, a seemingly impossible result without the use of modern technology.

Now with regards to the recent article, Moraes proposes that the image could not have draped a full human form because once the cloth is pulled flat the image would be highly distorted with the face looking like a round dinner plate as opposed to the face that we see on the Shroud. Therefore, they conclude that it could not have wrapped a three-dimensional human form. However, this is a conundrum that we've known about since the beginning of Shroud research and is precisely why physicists and other Shroud researchers have described the image as being “vertically collimated,” meaning that the image forming process appears to be perpendicular to the cloth itself, it is not a radial phenomenon. The absence of the sides of the face, the sides of the body, and the top of the head indicate it is NOT a radial phenomenon. This has not led to a dismissal of the Shroud but rather an investigative clue as to the unique physics of the image.

However, Moraes assumes that the image, if it were the result of a miraculous light generating event, must be a radial phenomenon if it indeed wrapped a full three-dimensional body. Based on that assumption, the author dismisses the possibility of the cloth being authentic but fails to mention other possibilities posed by prominent physicists as mentioned above.

The author then shift gears and proposes that the Shroud image correlates with having been draped over a bas relief sculpture. This also is not a new proposal and has been discussed by world-class artists such as Isabel Piczek, who once said that if the Shroud image was the result of a bas relief, then it would have been one of the most miraculous sculptures ever made. The best example of a bas relief is a simple coin, such as with a quarter where we see the image of George Washington somewhat elevated above the background of the coin. The problem with bas relief is that it presupposes either a rubbing with the use of pigment or the use of heat as a way of lightly scorching the cloth - this is also known as the “hot statute theory.” However, neither theory holds up under close analysis as there is no evidence of pigment having been applied to the cloth regardless of the claim by microscopist Walter McCrone, invoked by Moraes. McCrone's allegations of the image being the result of iron oxide have been universally debunked.

Blood chemists Al Adler and John Heller removed each particle of “iron oxide” from the mylar tape used to remove them from the Shroud and painstakingly cleansed each one with various solvents. When analyzed as a pristine particle without the interference of the mylar tape, lo and behold the so-called iron oxide particles were found to be shards of blood. McCrone's claims were summarily dismissed because he failed to apply basic scientific protocol for particle analysis and was fooled by his own arrogance that he could identify a particle by simple observation.

As for the hot statue theory, we know that the burns which occurred in 1532 fluoresce under UV fluorescence because they are the result of intense heat. However, the coloration of the image, which appears like a faint scorch, does not fluoresce and is therefore not the result of heat. We are now back to assessing how this image could have been formed without the use of artistic substance and without the use of heat, while displaying a phenomenon that is vertically collimated rather than a radial projection.

The theory that has captured my imagination over the years is offered by theoretical physicist John Jackson, co-founder of the Shroud Project in 1978. He proposed what he calls “the collapse theory” which postulates that as the body of Jesus was instantaneously converting to a volume of light, since light has no mass, the cloth under the weight of gravity began to descend through the body to a depth of about 8mm until the body itself had completely vanished. The elegance of this theory is that it would account for how only the front facial features are captured and not the sides because the body would have disappeared within a couple seconds. This “fall through” approach may explain why we see the large orbits of the eyes, elongated fingers and other structures such as the roots of the teeth. Are we looking at flesh and bone simultaneously?

This nearly instantaneous transformation of the body correlates very well with research published by physicist Paulo Lazzaro and the experiments he conducted using high power ultraviolet lasers showing how a 40-nanosecond burst from a UV laser against a control sample of linen achieves the same coloration and superficial depth as we see on the Shroud while generating minimal heat. This experiment, involving a near instantaneous burst of intense light, corresponds with Jackson's collapse hypothesis.

Both have Scriptural support with Jesus appearing to be transformed into a being of intense light on the Mount of Transfiguration. Further support is found in Acts where He appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus in a blinding flash of light so bright that Saul, who was renamed Paul after his conversion, was blinded for three days.

The work of Cicero Moraes offers no new information that we didn't already know before. The only thing new is the use of digital simulation. The riddle remains unsolved.

Moraes also assumes the C14 date range of 1260 to 1390 is probably correct despite many new tests to the contrary and new evidence proving the sample used in 1988 was highly contaminated and even repaired using newer cotton threads as published by chemist Ray Rogers in a peer reviewed journal in 2005. Problems with the integrity of the sample caused the British Museum to withhold data from Nature which published the results in 1989. When the fudged data is added back into the calculation, the sample does not pass the statistical test as being viable. It could not be considered representative of the entire cloth; therefore, the testing results would never have achieved the coveted threshold of “95% confidence.” This fraudulent withholding of data was exposed because of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request made to the British Museum, which grudgingly complied in 2017 and later published in Archaeometry from Oxford University in 2019.

The author's general acceptance of the erroneous carbon date caused him to reference 14th century funerary art as examples like the Shroud. Known as an epitaphios, it is a large, embroidered cloth showing the front image of the crucified Christ with the arms across the pelvis as seen on the Shroud. It is most associated with the Orthodox church and is used as part of a liturgical procession on Good Friday. Usually embroidered on cloth, there are also painted versions, but I am not aware of any version that shows both frontal and dorsal images as seen on the Shroud. The Shroud was most likely influential in the development of the epitaphios tradition, but to suggest the reverse, that the epitaphios inspired the alleged artist who crafted the Shroud image without the use of paint, ink, dye, pigment or stain seems like a bridge way too far. In fact, there is no known artist in the 14th century who had the artistic skills and medical knowledge to craft what we see on the Turin Shroud today.

There is one other significant paradox as it relates to the Shroud, that is also conveniently not addressed in this paper. The cloth shows two sets of images, one is related to a pattern of blood stains correlating with the wounds of crucifixion and the other is the image of the man himself. The blood is already proven to be AB blood type, with human male DNA. We also know that there is no image under the blood, meaning the blood stains were absorbed into the cloth first followed by the image sometime later... perhaps three days later? This of course makes sense if the Shroud is authentic with crucifixion occurring on Good Friday followed by resurrection on Easter Sunday. However, it makes no sense as the work of an artist, and to this date no artist has ever attempted replicating the Shroud in this manner. Skeptics simply assume that this clear observation made by the blood chemists must be incorrect. More likely it is an inconvenient truth.

To conclude, I give Cicero Moraes credit for using new digital imaging software but unfortunately, he did not consider all the relevant data. This led him to an erroneous conclusion that was in sync with his preconceived assumption that the Shroud is merely the work of an unknown Medieval artist. This is a conclusion that was dismissed over 45 years ago by a team of 33 scientists who had unfettered access to the cloth for 120 continuous hours. Digital techniques have their place but are not a substitute for hard science.

Russ Breault is the president and founder of the Shroud of Turin Education Project, Inc. and the author of Shroud Encounter: Explore the World's Greatest Unsolved Mystery.

Contact him through www.ShroudEncounter.com

Moraes, Cicero, Image Formation on the Shroud of Turin - a Digital 3D Approach (October 29, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5003510 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5003510


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Response by 3D expert Ray Downing on the recent paper by Cicero Morae's paper:
“Image Formation on the Shroud of Turin -A Digital 3D Approach” - November 11, 2024
Originally sent by email to Russ Breault and reproduced with permission of Ray Downing.

I've reviewed Moraes's paper which has as its main thrust that the Shroud image lacks the distortions which would inevitably result if a contact print was made from a fully three dimensional human body.

He observes that the image more closely resembles a similarly created contact image made from a low relief representation of a human body. He holds that the low relief would create a less distorted image when the cloth is laying flat than would a fully three-dimensional body. This is not exactly a new observation. The lack of distortion in the Shroud image has been noted from before the STURP team was formed. What is new here is his use of off the shelf 3D software to state the obvious and grab headlines under the guise of cutting-edge technology. In fact, the 3D software is superfluous as the same observation can easily be made using a handkerchief and a few dabs of paint. This has in fact been done in the past.

The author's basic argument is a bit of a tautology. He assumes that the Shroud is a contact print image, then observes that a contact print image from a three-dimensional body does not look like the Shroud image when compared to a contact image from a low relief sculpture. Moraes then concludes that the Shroud is fake because it was made from a low relief sculpture. If however, his assumption that the Shroud image is a contact print image is incorrect, then his conclusion is worthless.

So why don't authenticists believe that the Shroud is a contact print image? Because the Shroud doesn't look like a contact print image and doesn't have the characteristics of a contact print image. Below is a list of a few characteristics of the Shroud which are a mismatch for images made by contact printing, including prints made from a low relief human sculpture.

1. No evidence of a substance used to transfer the image by means of contact from the original object (be it body or low relief) has been detected. No paint, dye, pigment, burns, or fluids are present.
2. The image is not made of a substance, it is pure linen which has been affected by an agent which has degraded it. If, like in the Garlaschelli experiment an acid was used, the linen would have disintegrated over time.
3. The Shroud image is soft, diffused and subtle. Contact print images are stark. They are an all-or-nothing type transfer system.
4. The Shroud image transitional tones are gradated, not at all like a contact print.
5. There seems to be image information on the Shroud in areas where there is no contact (cheek alongside the nose).
6. Superficiality would be unlikely in a contact print.
7. Front and dorsal images on the Shroud are not identical. There seems to be more than one method of encoding going on.
8. Capillary flow would be unavoidable but does not appear on the Shroud.
9. Off body blood stains would be unexpected in a contact print.
10. The 3D character of the Shroud image is far from what can be achieved with contact printing or with a Garlaschelli-type transfer mechanism.
11. There has never been an experiment that replicates the Shroud image using a contact print mechanism.

This is not to say that the Shroud is or is not authentic or that a low relief statue was not used in its creation. At present, no truthful person can pronounce the Shroud to have been created by any mechanism unless they are prepared to reproduce the Shroud image by experimentation using that mechanism. [Editor's notes: Ray Downing's work was featured in the 2010 History Channel program “The Real Face of Jesus.” Cicero Morae's paper: Image Formation on the Shroud of Turin - A Digital 3D Approach. See corresponding video: Scientist claims Shroud of Turin does NOT show Jesus' face - because virtual simulation shows it (9:10).

(See another review immediately below.)


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FB posting by physicist Mark Rivera 11/7/2024

This article primarily replicates previous experiments but in a digital format, using 3D modeling and fabric simulations to support the hypothesis that the Shroud's image may have originated from a low-relief source rather than a full human body. This simulation approach does not introduce a novel hypothesis or provide groundbreaking data but rather reaffirms known results with a different methodology. The physical experiments, along with arguments about artistic techniques in medieval Europe, have already explored the low-relief hypothesis extensively. The study assumes that the Shroud image originated from a low-relief object without providing direct evidence to substantiate this foundational claim. Instead, it reconstructs an image based on this assumption, making further presumptions regarding how such an image might have been formed on the Shroud. These presumptions, such as specific mechanics of image transfer or the necessity of a low-relief structure, are introduced without concrete evidence to verify them, relying instead on inferences and digital modeling rather than on verifiable historical or physical data. This approach lacks the rigor of grounded empirical evidence, leaving the hypothesis speculative rather than conclusively supported.


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Facebook posting by sindonologist Doug Powell - November 1, 2024
“Four Reasons Why News of the Shroud Being Proven Fake are False“

Several articles have appeared about a new “bombshell” “scientific study” that proves the Shroud of Turin is fake. However, both the articles and the report itself are deeply flawed. Brazilian forensic facial reconstruction expert Cicero Moraes claims the Shroud never touched the body of Jesus because an image made by contact would be distorted when laid flat. Because the Shroud shows no distortion, it never touched the body of Jesus and thus is fake. He suggests the image could be made by laying the cloth on a bas relief.

There are several problems with Moraes claims, and they show he has no understanding of the scientific evidence collected from the Shroud. The most rigorous research was done in 1978 by the Shroud of Turin Research Project (STURP). STURP performed more than two dozen tests and measurements to collect data. They published more than 20 peer reviewed papers in scientific journals that Moraes clearly has no familiarity with. STURP could not determine the cause of the image. But they did prove what did NOT make the image, as well as several other features that cannot be explained.

1. No pigment, stain, dye, paint, oils, scorching, or biological material caused the image. The image is a result of a chemical change on the outer-most fibrils of the linen thread. All known artistic and biological methods for leaving an image would also penetrate the cloth deeper than the outer-most fibril.
2. The image has 3-dimensional information that indicates the distance the cloth was from the body. Yes, the cloth touched some parts of the body (e.g. the nose and knees), but not other parts shown on the cloth (e.g. the hollow of the neck). The image of the body was left on parts of the cloth that were not touching, but as far as 4 mm away. Photographs and paintings do not contain that kind of information.
3. The image of the front of the body is on both sides of the cloth, but the image of the back of the body is only on one side of the cloth.
4. The body image does not appear on the cloth beneath the blood.
Oddly, the report suggests the image could have been made by draping the shroud over a low bas relief. This would also result in a warped image when laid flat - EXACTLY the criticism the report makes of the Shroud. In total, STURP found 17 features on the Shroud that need to be accounted for by any proposed method for how the image was created. Bas Relief accounts for only 8 of them, and the 4 reasons above are only some of what is not accounted for. In the end, the only thing the study proves is that the image was not made by contact with a body. But that issue was settled almost 50 years ago. What is fake is that this is news at all.


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Update on Shroud.com: - November 1, 2024
In case you missed it, three new web pages were added, all related to our late friend, Barrie Schwortz.


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Email from sindonologist Teddi Pappas - October 30, 2024

I was getting ready to go into cardiac arrest after reading what Don Lynn wrote in this paper that I came across on shroud.com.

Don Lynn made it appear all but 100% certain that we needed to now throw away the singularly most important identifying piece of evidence that the Man of the Shroud is Jesus Christ -- the head wounds that are indicative of the CROWN OF THORNS used to mock our Savior. However, after logging into my free JSTOR account, I was able to read the entire paper -- because THERE WAS NO WAY THAT I WAS GOING TO JUST TRUST THIS ACCOUNT WITHOUT READING THE DETAILS!!! And, this is a cautionary tale for all of us to remember: THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS, BUT GOD IS, ALSO, IN THE DETAILS!
If you read the entire paper, you will read that the "spikes" that are referred to are "cereal spikes" -- as in the prickly parts of wheat -- NOT what was a torture device for Christ while mocking Him.

Anyhow, it is important that we are all aware of this -- it is just, likely, a matter of time before enemies of the Holy Shroud find what Don Lynn wrote and try to attack the issue of identity with this -- but, things are okay now.

As I so often find in matters concerning the Holy Shroud, incomplete research can easily lead to doubt or a loss of belief that the Holy Shroud is authentic. However, DEEPER RESEARCH almost always goes to point directly towards authenticity! So, everyone, please do not ever give up on a piece of evidence -- especially the more important pieces of evidence that evidence the Holy Shroud's authenticity -- unless you have thoroughly researched the issue.

We cannot win them all, however -- such as, I no longer believe that the artifact from Herculaneum is a flagrum, but that's okay -- because my research into the issue no longer needs that as an example. Anyhow, we must be vigilant in terms of defending our good evidence and abandoning some of the evidence that keeps getting repeated that should no longer be repeated.

(Editor's note: Teddi is authoring a book about the blood on the Shroud; it is scheduled to be published in 2025 by Jenny Stanford Publishing.)


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Email from Portugal Center of Sindonology - November 2, 2024

Dear Joe Marino: I'm Antero de Frias Moreira a Physical and Rehabilitation medical doctor and executive member of “Centro Portugues de Sindonologia”. Yesterday while searching the Web to look for news about the Shroud I was surprised to read 2 news claiming that the Shroud could not have wrapped Jesus' body based on a new study of a Brazilian forensic facial reconstruction expert. I mean New York Post and Catholic Herald (this one from an article from Daily Telegraph). I read both articles and the claims are absolutely ludicrous but can mislead readers so I wrote an article that was published today in our website www.santosudariodeturim.blogspot.com and I attach it to this e-mail. It's written in Portuguese language but it has the abstract in English. The last article I wrote is a summary of the studies of mineral particles on the Shroud, also with an English abstract, I also send it.


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Email from sindonologist Doug Powell - September 30, 2024

I used AI to generate a photographic image of the Pantocrator of Sinai, then combined the result with the face of the Shroud. This is the result. I think it is a far more plausible image than the AI image of the Shroud that went viral a couple of weeks ago. Thought you might be interested.

Doug Powell
Author | Apologist | Musician

dougpowell.com
grahameliotseries.com

Greg Eliot Doug Powell


Doug Powell AI image



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FB posting by sindonologist Otangelo Grasso - September 28, 2024
“The Cumulative Probability of the Shroud of Turin's Authenticity”

The Shroud of Turin's authenticity can be evaluated through various features and scientific analyses, and odds calculations (The odds estimates for each point individually are a guess.) Here are key points supporting its authenticity and connection to Jesus:

[1] Pollen granules (1 in 10) and soil samples (1 in 20) from Jerusalem suggest the Shroud's Middle Eastern origin. Rare limestone particles (1 in 50) match stones in ancient Jerusalem tombs.

[2] The Vignon markings, which are distinctive features shared between Byzantine Christ icons (Pantocrator) and the Shroud of Turin image, provide a remarkable visual and historical link. These markings include 15 oddities, such as the topless square between the brows, that appear on the Shroud and are repeated in Byzantine depictions of Christ from as early as the 5th century. The odds that Byzantine artists consistently reproduced these markings without access to the Shroud are extraordinarily low. Given the unique features of the Shroud and their repetition in Byzantine art, estimating the odds that these depictions of Christ, especially in the Pantocrator image, were created independently of the Shroud could be on the order of:

Odds Calculation for the Pantocrator Icon: Assuming 15 Vignon markings, each with a 1 in 20 chance: (1/20)^15 = 1 / 3.05 x 10^19
Odds Calculation for Byzantine Solidus Coins: Assuming 10 Vignon markings, each with a 1 in 20 chance: (1/20)^10 = 1 / 1.024 x 10^13

Pantocrator Icon: 1 in 3.05 x 10^19. Byzantine Solidus Coins: 1 in 1.024 x 10^13

These probabilities represent the chance of these images independently displaying the specific Vignon markings without influence from the Shroud of Turin. The Pantocrator icon, with more Vignon markings, shows a significantly lower probability compared to the solidus coins. Both results still suggest a very low likelihood of these images occurring by chance without influence from the Shroud.

[3] De Caro's X-ray scattering analysis points to a 1st-century origin, vastly increasing the likelihood of authenticity.

[4] High levels of creatinine in the blood suggest severe trauma consistent with crucifixion. The bloodstains correspond accurately to crucifixion wounds.

[5] The Sudarium of Oviedo, with a verified history to the 6th century, matches the Shroud's bloodstain patterns and blood type.

[6] Scientific analysis shows no paint or pigment, ruling out medieval forgery techniques. The weave pattern and thread manufacturing are consistent with ancient linen production methods.

[7] The absence of body decomposition aligns with the biblical narrative of the resurrection.

[8] Additional features specific to Jesus' crucifixion include: crown of thorns (1 in 400), nailed to the cross (1 in 2), unbroken legs (1 in 3), side wound from a Roman spear (1 in 27), fine linen burial shroud (1 in 8), and hasty burial (1 in 8 ).

To calculate the odds that the Shroud of Turin is not authentic based on the given information, we'll multiply the probabilities of each independent piece of evidence occurring by chance. We'll use the inverse of the provided odds where applicable.

1. Middle Eastern origin: Pollen: 1/10 Soil: 1/20 Limestone: 1/50 Combined: 1/10 * 1/20 * 1/50 = 1/10,000
2. Byzantine art connection: We'll use the more conservative estimate from the solidus coins: 1/1.024 x 10^13
3. X-ray scattering analysis: Not quantified, so we'll omit this.
4. Blood analysis: Not quantified, so we'll omit this.
5. Sudarium of Oviedo match: Not quantified, so we'll omit this.
6. Lack of paint/pigment and ancient linen production: Not quantified, so we'll omit this.
7. Absence of decomposition: Not quantified, so we'll omit this.
8. Specific crucifixion features: Crown of thorns: 1/400 Nailed to cross: 1/2 Unbroken legs: 1/3 Side wound: 1/27 Fine linen shroud: 1/8 Hasty burial: 1/8 Combined: 1/400 * 1/2 * 1/3 * 1/27 * 1/8 * 1/8 = 1/4,147,200
Now, let's multiply these probabilities:
(1/10,000) * (1/1.024 x 10^13) * (1/4,147,200) = 1 / (4.2466 x 10^23)

Therefore, the calculated odds that the Shroud of Turin is not authentic, based on the provided information, are approximately: 1 in 4.25 x 10^23. This means the odds are roughly 1 in 10 followed by 23 zeros, 1 to 10^23, or more precisely, 1 in 10 raised to the power of 23.63.

To match the 1 in 4.25 x 10^23 odds, you'd need to win about 3 lotteries at once, each with 1 in 100 million odds.

This extremely low probability suggests that it is highly unlikely for all these features to align by chance, supporting the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin. However, this calculation doesn't include all possible factors and assumes independence of events, which may not be entirely accurate in reality. The extremely low calculated probability of 1 in 4.25 x 10^23 strongly suggests the Shroud of Turin's authenticity. However, this number should be interpreted cautiously due to several factors: 1. Omission of some unquantified evidence 2. Assumption of event independence, which may not be fully accurate 3. Potential biases in probability estimates 4. Focus solely on supporting evidence 5. Simplification of complex historical and scientific factors. While these limitations mean the actual odds are likely less extreme than calculated, they would still be very low. Even accounting for these factors, the probability of all the Shroud's features aligning by chance remains extremely small, providing robust support for its authenticity. The key takeaway is that while the exact numerical odds are subject to uncertainty, the overall conclusion of likely authenticity remains well-supported by the available evidence.


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News from SignFromGod.org - August 26, 2024
A sudden, unprecedented explosion of news about the Shroud of Turin!

“The World's Greatest Mystery” is the name of the future National Shroud of Turin Exhibit in Washington, D.C. Our team of Shroud experts is working to raise funds and attract partners to make this permanent exhibit a reality in the world's most powerful and influential city. Then, out of nowhere was last week's Shroud of Turin news explosion in the mainstream media. Highlighted were existing studies and research that suddenly made national and global headlines.



National Shroud of Turin Exhibit image


There is only one possible explanation: God wants you to know the Shroud of Turin is the authentic burial Shroud of Jesus Christ in whom you can place your faith, hope, trust, and belief in Him!

The Shroud of Turin is a 14-foot linen burial cloth with His unexplained life-sized image — proof that the biblical accounts are true! Jesus was tortured, crucified, died, and resurrected — leaving His burial Shroud as evidence of God's miracle. The Shroud of Turin cannot be dismissed. It is the world's greatest mystery, achieving new heights of religious and secular interest.

Listed below are headlines and links to some of the most prominent articles published over the past week.

This explosion of news reports about studies and research thoroughly and finally debunked the faulty 1988 carbon-14 medieval dating. Also featured were chemical components of the blood found on the Shroud that scientifically concluded the crucified man experienced a traumatic, violent event. Three of these articles were featured on the popular Drudge Report and numerous other national and international secular news sites. Here is only a sample.

Fox News: “Researchers make new finding on Turin Shroud that many believe was Christ's burial cloth: ‘Mysteries of God.’”

Yahoo News: “Shroud of Turin really is 2,000 years old, new study suggests.”

NYPost.com: “Face of Jesus? AI recreates stunning likeness of Shroud of Turin image that many believe to be Christ.”

Newsweek: “Turin Shroud Study Claims Controversial Cloth Does Date to Time of Jesus.”

Al Jazeera: “What's the big mystery behind the Shroud of Turin?”

DailyMail UK: “New blood analysis of the Shroud of Turin supports Biblical story about Jesus' crucifixion.”

BarStoolSports: New Scientific Analysis of the Shroud of Turin Might Be Revealing the Greatest Discovery in Human History

MSN.com: 'Face of Jesus' unveiled by AI using Shroud of Turin after astonishing discovery.

DailyMail UK: “Atheist who set out to prove the Shroud of Turin was fake reveals why he's now 'convinced' it's the cloth Jesus was buried in.”

Independent.co.uk: “Turin Shroud may be Jesus's burial cloth, new study suggests.”

NYPost.com: “Controversial new Shroud of Turin evidence said to offer proof of Christ's crucifixion.”

DailyMail UK: “Is this proof the Turin Shroud IS real? Scientists make startling discovery after analysing cloth 'Jesus was buried in.'”

Overwhelmed? Watch this short video featuring prominent Shroud expert Russ Breault, a member of our National Shroud of Turin Exhibit team. A Banner Week for Shroud of Turin News! (youtube.com) This video helps you understand what could be considered “God's Hand” on the news cycle - literally out of nowhere in mid-August!

Why is the Shroud of Turin suddenly mainstream news? One possible reason is that Almighty God wants you to educate yourself about the Shroud and how it mirrors the Gospel accounts of what Jesus endured for you.

That is why we need your help to produce a permanent Shroud of Turin exhibit in Washington, D.C., titled "The World's Greatest Mystery." With your tax-deductible donation, we will enlighten, engage, impact, educate, and inspire visitors.

In July, our team experienced monumental success at the National Eucharistic Congress. This never-before-seen Shroud news breakthrough can only be perceived as a “Sign From God” - time for a National Shroud of Turin Exhibit in the world's most powerful city. Our Shroud team thanks you for your support.

Myra Kahn Adams, Executive Director NationalShroudofTurinExhibit.org

Donate Today!


The National Shroud of Turin Exhibit's business and content plan is available upon request.

Contact: Myra@SignFromGod.org - (703) 795-8136


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Facebook Posting by British Society for the Turin Shroud Newsletter - August 22, 2024

ARE YOU SEARCHING for information on THE SHROUD OF TURIN? On Tuesday 20th August a tsunami of positive coverage about the Shroud of Turin was initiated by an article written by journalist @stacyliberatore from the Daily Mail on-line. This article has subsequently been re-edited and released now on all UK tabloid platforms and new articles about the Shroud have since appeared in the Daily Mail, including a new article today!

Many Shroud enthusiasts have commented that as a result of this incredible news coverage, there may be many people out there looking for information on the Shroud of Turin.The British Society for the Turin Shroud (BSTS) would therefore like to offer links to some online resources that provide reliable information about the Shroud of Turin. The following webpage includes links to a number of key Shroud websites: www.bstsnewsletter.com/links/website_links.html

You can also “Follow” the BSTS Facebook page which offers excellent articles podcasts and videos, at www.facebook.com/BSTSNews/. Also, please feel free to contact the BSTS personally by messaging us!


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STERA board member Guy Powell was interviewed by Atlanta, Georgia TV station about continuing the work of STERA:
Curator working to preserve legacy of the Shroud of Turin through research project - Atlanta First News - August 15, 2024 - Video (1:57)


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Email from Mary Kahn Adams of SignFromGod.org - July 30, 2024

“The World's Greatest Mystery” is the name of the future National Shroud of Turin Exhibit in Washington, D.C. Our group of Shroud experts is working to raise funds and attract partners to make this permanent exhibit a reality in the world's most powerful and influential city. In the meantime...

National Shroud of Turin Exhibit image


Below: The hard-working Shroud of Turin Exhibit team at the four-day National Eucharistic Congress with Jonathan Roumie, “The Chosen” actor who plays Jesus in the hit series. (Black t-shirt in the middle.) Jonathan toured this most popular exhibit at the Congress.

Jonathan Roumie image


Not all team members were present when Jonathan visited. Lines to enter the Shroud exhibit stretched for hours and never ceased. Approximately 60,000 people attended this Eucharistic Congress held from July 17-21 in Indianapolis. Watch this video about the exhibit starring Fr. Andrew Dalton, LC produced by Shalom World TV. Also, this “most read” headline story is on Aleteia, an influential international Catholic news site. The exhibit received much media attention during the four-day Congress.

Nora Creech image


The exhibit was produced by Nora Creech (above, giving an interview to EWTN) and co-produced by Dr. Cheryl White and Pam McCue. Othonia, a Rome-based international organization responsible for Shroud education, created the 24 exhibit panels developed with input from worldwide Shroud scholars.

During the four-day Shroud exhibit, the standing-room-only speaking program included the aforementioned Fr. Dalton, Dr. Cheryl White, and Fr. Peter Mangum who spoke on the topic of “Seeking God's Face.” For the many Spanish speakers, Fr. Rafael Pascual, LC, presented a Shroud educational session and appeared on EWTN's Spanish channel.

Fr. Rafael Pascual image


The exhibit's Shroud replica was from the Shroud of Turin Research Association (STERA), which manages Shroud.com and was helmed by our recently deceased Shroud leader, Barrie Schwortz. Now, STERA and Barrie's popular Shroud.com site will be led by Joe Marino, who is an executive team member of the National Shroud of Turin Exhibit. Below on the right were the four-day forever lines to enter the Shroud exhibit.

Shroud exhibit lines image


Below: Dr. Cheryl White, who curates the rare collection of Shroud-related art from the Richard Orareo Collection dating from the 1500s, had a special room at the exhibit. Dr. White is shown with Jonathan Roumie, who soon will film the crucifixion scenes for “The Chosen.”

Dr. Cheryl White and Jonathan Roumie image


At the Congress, exhibit visitors explored the history and scientific discoveries related to the Shroud. Highlighted were the Gospel connections which invite everyone to answer Jesus' question: “Who do you say that I am?”

Shroud body and face image


Above left: How the Shroud looks with the naked eye.
Above right: The Shroud's Holy Face, revealed when photographed for the first time in 1898.

Interest in the Shroud of Turin is at an all-time high, proven by the hours-long wait to enter the exhibit at the National Eucharistic Congress. The cloth is the world's most analyzed artifact, and due to a preponderance of scientific evidence, millions around the globe believe it is the authentic burial cloth of Jesus Christ. Yet, this linen cloth remains the world's greatest mystery.

Your tax-deductible donation will help our 14 Shroud experts educate Washington, D.C., visitors and residents about the “World's Greatest Mystery.” We will enlighten, engage, impact, educate, and inspire visitors at the Shroud of Turin exhibit's future permanent home in the nation's capital.

Our Shroud team thanks you for your support.

Myra Kahn Adams, Executive Director NationalShroudofTurinExhibit.org

Below L to R: Sisterhood of the Shroud - Nora Creech, Lisa Rowan, Myra Kahn Adams, and Dr. Cheryl White at the Eucharistic Congress.

Sisterhood of the Shroud image


Donate Today!


The National Shroud of Turin Exhibit's business and content plan is available upon request.

Contact: Myra@SignFromGod.org - (703) 795-8136


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Other article in book: The Shroud of Turin - Dr. Alan Whanger Interview

In the book: Further Evidence for Close Encounters by L.A. Marzulli with Richard Shaw - (Spiral of Life Publishing) - Published 2013. [Editor's note: I received permission from Marzulli to reproduce this previously-unknown article. His web site is: https://lamarzulli.net/.]



Posted December 7, 2024

Our Next Update

Our next update should be on or around January 21, which is the anniversary date of when Barrie first came online in 1996. Due to a computer crash, 2024 was the 1st year that Barrie was unable to upload the Winter update specifically on January 21. I’m hoping we can resume the tradition of literally getting it out on that day.

You can also join our Website Mailing List and receive an e-mail whenever the site is updated (3 or 4 times per year) or when any important Shroud news breaks. Note that mailing list subscribers have access to special offers not available to the general public. If you are already a subscriber but have changed your e-mail address recently, please remember that we are a self-subscribed mailing list and you have to update your e-mail address or you will stop receiving our quarterly updates. This is easily accomplished by clicking on the Update Profile link at the bottom of every e-mail we send. And finally, thank you for your dedicated patronage and support of STERA, Inc. It is truly appreciated.

Joe Marino
Editor, Shroud.com
President, STERA, Inc.
Posted December 7, 2024

AN IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM THE EDITOR - NOVEMBER 1, 2024


Several new website pages are now available:

In memory of the amazing Barrie Schwortz, we have recently added an IN MEMORIAM page in his honor. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEMORIAM PAGE.

Although we miss him tremendously, Barrie Schwortz leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories and a profound impact on the world of shroud research and photography. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.

Barrie Schwortz‘s legacy will endure through his contributions to science, his captivating photographs, and the countless lives he touched. CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR GROWING LIST OF DONORS AND SUPPORTERS.

You too can become an important part in sharing his life‘s work with the world. CLICK HERE TO KEEP BARRIE‘S LEGACY ALIVE




IMPORTANT NEWS FROM NEW EDITOR - JUNE 23, 2024


My first message as new editor of Shroud.com is a sad one. I have just sent to many contacts the following message:

  It is with great, great sadness that I report the passing on June 21, 2024 of Barrie Schwortz in Colorado Springs, CO. Barrie was a friend and mentor to countless people. Barrie was the documenting photographer of the 1978 Shroud of Turin Research Project. Many of the well-known photos of the Shroud seen in articles and documentaries were taken by Barrie. He was also Editor and Publisher of the world-renowned shroud.com and President of STERA, Inc. from January 21, 1996 until the time of his death.

  I heard from David, his son, this morning. He said that Barrie died peacefully on the evening of the 21st, surrounded by his family. David said Barrie appreciated the love, prayers and support that were extended to him. He also said his family would like some privacy during this difficult time for them.

  A brief mention will be made in the upcoming update at shroud.com. In the following update (date TBA), there will be an extensive “In Memoriam,” which will include comments by anyone who would like to submit them.

  Rest in peace, dear Barrie.


  In his last message of May 29, Barrie had written:

  Unfortunately, we will temporarily have to suspend all credit card transactions (sales and contributions), but contributions can still be made via PayPal at this link or by check to STERA, Inc and sent to the Vice-President Joe Marino / 2408 Sovron Ct. / Dublin, OH 43016 / Phone: Between 12:00 - 10:00 ET. All new licensing agreements are also suspended.

  Barrie had made arrangements with Steve Ouimet, a man who printed the life-size replicas to keep the website store going. The store had also offered backlit transparencies via Ed Sinofsky of PhotoGlow. Ed has informed me that he will be retiring in August, but I might be able to put up for sale a few items from the remaining inventory. The site Systems Administrators are working with Steve to install new software on the shroud.com website that will make purchasing items relatively easy.

  Obviously, a lot of changes will have to be made to the website. Please be patient as I and the Systems Administrators try to navigate the transition and try to fill the huge shoes of Barrie, (who, by the way, it should be noted, usually worked 12 hours a day, seven days a week on the website and STERA administrative functions!). We will keep you informed as best we can.


Best regards,

Joe Marino
Editor, Shroud.com
Vice-President, STERA Inc.



Addendum (August 10, 2024):  In his last message of May 29, Barrie wrote:

“Unfortunately, we will temporarily have to suspend all credit card transactions (sales and contributions), but contributions can still be made via PayPal at this link or by check to STERA, Inc. and sent to the Vice-President Joe Marino / 2408 Sovron Ct. / Dublin, OH 43016 / Phone: Between 12:00 – 10:00 ET.”

Joe Marino can be reached at (614) 477–1480 at the hours mentioned above. The process under Barrie allowed for direct credit card transactions. The STERA board has decided not to continue with direct credit card transations for sales and contributions, BUT credit cards and debit cards CAN be used via the PayPal option when making payment for sales or making contributions at https://www.shroud.com/steraform.htm.



An Important Message from the Editor - May 29, 2024


Dear scholars, researchers and friends of Shroud.com,

  It is with great sadness that I write to inform you that, after 28 years, my time as editor of Shroud.com has come to an end. I am now going through dialysis and chemotherapy and have handed over editor duties to Joe Marino, one of STERA, Inc.'s Board Members and a man well known to the Shroud community.

  The transition will take some time so please be patient for things to return to normal. In the interim, our Systems Administrator, Harrison Gibbs, has assured me that the website will remain active, so you can continue use it as you always have.

  Unfortunately, we will temporarily have to suspend all credit card transactions (sales and contributions), but contributions can still be made via PayPal at this link or by check to STERA, Inc and sent to the Vice-President Joe Marino / 2408 Sovron Ct. / Dublin, OH 43016 / Phone: Between 12:00 - 10:00 ET. All new licensing agreements are also suspended.

  Finally, I would like to thank you all for your ongoing support and prayers over the years and during this difficult period of my life.


Warmest regards,

Barrie Schwortz



Summer Update! June 23, 2024

As most of you probably know, Barrie Schwortz had asked me to take over the duties of being editor of shroud.com. It is an awesome task and responsibility, and I humbly ask for your patience (and prayers!) as I try to learn all the ropes. Following in Barrie's footsteps is a tall order. I am not, and can't be Barrie - he has been and always will be one of a kind. But I will do my best to approach the high standards he set in his 28 years(!) Since Barrie did his last update in November 2023, I had about six months of backlog material to add to the site, the equivalent of two major updates that Barrie did. Thus, in the interest of time, I had to leave out some material I might have otherwise put in. Please also be aware that the Systems Administrator, Harrison Gibbs is gainfully employed, but thankfully Dr. Brian Donley Worrell has volunteered his services to help. Thankfully, he is a full-fledged Systems Administrator, about which I'm very grateful and joyous. Sadly, Barrie passed away on June 21, 2024 from his illness. There will extensive coverage of that in our subsequent update.

For those of you who are not aware, I also send out a weekly email to people interested in the Shroud with the latest information similar to what you find at shroud.com. Everyone on the list is blind-copied, and one can request at any time to be removed from the list. If you would like to be added to the list, please mail to: JMarino240@aol.com. It's a good way to keep up with the latest Shroud happenings between major updates on shroud.com. You can also use that email address regarding questions or comments about shroud.com. - Joe Marino, editor.

We lead off with extremely sad news. Barrie Schwortz, the founder, editor and publisher of shroud.com and President of the Shroud of Turin Education and Research Association (STERA) passed away on June 21, 2024.

We can report the online publication of a very important conference held in Spain in November 2023 pertaining to the Shroud of Turin and the Sudarium of Ovideo. I was informed about this by Alfonso Sánchez Hermosilla, director of Edices. On November 3, 2023 Actas del Congreso Científico: La Síndone de Turín y el Sudario de Oviedo, dos telas y ¿un cuerpo? (Proceedings of the Scientific Congress: The Shroud of Turin and Sudarium of Oviedo, two fabrics and a body?) was held. Although currently only in Spanish, it is hoped by the organizers to eventually publish them in English. The link provided below will take you to a page where you can download it. As usual, the bulk of the new material added consists of papers, articles, books, videos and other miscellaneous items found on the Internet and in the print world.

Here is the Update Table of Contents:

Posted June 23, 2024

Recently Published Papers & Articles

The Shroud Of Turin: Christianity's Most Famous Relic
by Andrew R. Casper

There are twelve new papers added to the website in today's update! All have also been permanently archived on the Scientific Papers & Articles page (alphabetically by title) and the Website Library page (alphabetically by author) or, when appropriate, on the Religion and Philosophy page (alphabetically by title) and the Website Library page (alphabetically by author). Since there are far too many to include on this page, we are only including one here and have once again created a separate pdf file that includes all of the links and descriptions listed chronologically, with the most recent paper at the top of the list, all in a single file that you can download and view at your convenience (see link below).

Posted June 23, 2024

Recently Published Books

Recently Published Books

A number of new Shroud related books were published since our last update so we are listing them here and have also permanently archived the new titles on the Shroud of Turin Booklist page (alphabetically by author). To make it easy to find the newest additions, we have annotated the listings with "(Added 27 NOV 2023)" so you can simply search for that phrase on the Booklist page should you forget the titles.

Nuova Luce Sulla Sindone by Emanuela Marinelli

Here is an exerpt from the online description:

"Una straordinaria presenza ammantata di mistero: così si pone la Sindone sul cammino dell’umanità desiderosa di dare risposta ai quesiti che coinvolgono il senso più profondo della sua esistenza. Quell’antico telo ha avvolto davvero Gesù? L’immagine che vediamo ci parla della sua risurrezione? Com’è arrivato fino a noi quel fragile lenzuolo? Per far luce su questi enigmi sono scese in campo le discipline storiche e quelle scientifiche. Nuovi risultati sono così emersi dagli archivi e dai laboratori, componendo un mosaico avvincente di indizi e di prove. A questo punto il cammino va oltre: davanti alla Sindone « il nostro non è un semplice osservare, ma è un venerare, è uno sguardo di preghiera. Direi di più: è un lasciarsi guardare» (Papa Francesco, 30 marzo 2013).
Offrono qui il loro contributo Pierluigi Baima Bollone, Alfonso Caccese, Andrea Di Genua, Michele Filippi, Stefano Orfei, Alessandro Piana, Bartolomeo Pirone, Ivan Polverari, Laura Provera, Domenico Repice. Nel capitolo conclusivo, le riflessioni di Orazio Petrosillo (1947-2007) aprono alla contemplazione dell’Uomo della Sindone."

Publisher: Edizioni Ares, 2024
Language: Italian
Paperback: 336 pages
ISBN-13: 9788892984394

Shroud Encounter by Russ Breault

Excerpt from the online description:

"The culmination of a lifetime of research, countless presentations, and ongoing associations with Shroud experts worldwide, Russ Breault's Shroud Encounter--Explore the World's Greatest Unsolved Mystery examines the science, history, and theology surrounding this profound enigma. If proven one day to be authentic, the implications could truly shake the world."

Publisher: Covenant Books
Paperback: 256 pages
Language: English
ISBN-13: 979-8888510186





La Notte Della Prova. Sindone, La Conferenza Dimenticata e Il Verbale Ritrovato by Pierluigi Baima Bollone and Franca Giusti

Here is the online description:

"Questo articolo è acquistabile con Carta Cultura Giovani, Carta del Merito e/o Carta del Docente quando venduto e spedito da Amazon: Sono esclusi prodotti di Venditori terzi del Marketplace. Il Bonus è strettamente personale e può essere utilizzato esclusivamente dal suo titolare. 1969. Il noto egittologo prof. Silvio Curto è invitato a studiare la natura del telo sindonico. 1977. L‘egittologo tiene una conferenza e ne lascia traccia in una pubblicazione per anni dimenticata ed ora, ritrovata, qui riprodotta. 1978. Nella notte tra l‘8 ed il 9 ottobre, un team di scienziati e ricercatori europei e statunitensi preleva campioni di pollini e fili dalla Sindone. La sede dei lavori è il primo piano della biblioteca di Palazzo Reale di Torino. La cronaca di quella notte del 1978 è qui riportata fedelmente, grazie al ritrovamento del verbale redatto manualmente."

Publisher: Kemet, May 6, 2024
Paperback: 106 pages
Language: Italian
ISBN-13: 979-1280007551


From Forensics to Faith: The Shroud of Turin's History and Authenticity Under Scrutiny by Otangelo Grasso

Excerpt from the online description:

"Grasso's book is an up-to-date treatment of the mysterious Shroud of Turin, believed by many to be the actual burial cloth in which Jesus was buried, although there are numerous skeptics who believe the Shroud is nothing but a clever medieval forgery. Grasso painstakingly examines all aspects of the Shroud and incorporates recent “infographics,” with its many excellent photos and graphics that complement the text. He meticulously analyzes the Shroud's correspondence with the gospel accounts; a detailed look at the mechanics of crucifixion; the Shroud's possible history back to the 1st century; the science of the Shroud from the first photos taken in 1898; the extensive 1978 examination of the Shroud by “The Shroud of Turin Research Project;” the unique image properties of the images, including blood, pollen and 3D information; the infamous C-14 dating in 1988; various proposed hypotheses of how it could have been faked; the virtual impossibility of it having been forged, textile analysis, including Old Testament and New Testament background; a look at the Sudarium of Oviedo, believed by some to be the face cloth mentioned in the Gospel of John; the Shroud's link with the Resurrection, the implications of the Shroud and addresses common objections against the Shroud's authenticity."

Publisher: Independently published, February 7, 2024
Paperback or Kindle: 544 pages
Language: English
ISBN-13: 979-8878222341

The Shroud of Jesus: And the Sign John Ingeniously Concealed by Gilbert Lavoie   (Also available on the Sophia Institute Press site)

Excerpt from the online description:

"Gilbert R. Lavoie, M.D., invites you on a fascinating adventure to examine the Shroud of Turin, juxtaposing his scientific findings with John‘s Gospel account of the death and resurrection of Jesus. This story of the life of Jesus comes alive through relatable, real-world scientific witnesses who explore whether the image on the shroud is the work of human hands, a natural phenomenon, or a supernatural event. There are abundant photos that allow you to decide for yourself what the image and blood marks of this cloth reveal. As you explore the mystery of this shroud through the eyes of forensics and the lens of scripture, you will begin to discover the following, and much more: *The reason why the shroud image isn‘t mentioned in the Gospels *Significant studies that demonstrate why the shroud cannot be a painting *Details that confirm that the man of the shroud was crucified *How the shroud corroborates the Gospel accounts of the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus"

Publisher: Sophia Institute Press (June 19, 2023)
Paperback: 208 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1644138867
ISBN-13: 978-1644138861

You the Jury - Evidence for the Turin Shroud by Robert Dawson

Here is the online description:

"It is written as if a lawyer was explaining to a jury (the reader) the evidence to prove that the Shroud of Turin is, indeed, Jesus‘s authentic death Shroud. I started off pretty neutral but suspicious that there had been a huge injustice when it was declared a fake in 1988. It describes the Shroud, Biblical references, independent evidence for the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, why the 1988 Carbon 14 Test was flawed, how the image was probably formed, evidence of the injuries, blood group, pollen and plant evidence. The forensic evidence shows evidence for the crown of thorns and flagellation of a total of 130 lashes. The reader is asked to present their verdict - that it is genuine or a disgraceful Medieval fake, and then the implications for the verdict are given."

Publisher: Independently published, 2024
Paperback: 146 pages
Language: English
Price: £9.99 plus postage (UK £2.80) Post elsewhere is: Europe £6.80, £9.40 to U.S.A., Rest of World £12.50. BUT the automatic Buy Now button is only set for UK. If you live elsewhere, you will need to pay extra on postage-ask me how to do it please. (bob@robertdawson.co.uk)

The Case of the Missing Body: An Investigation into the Mysteries of the Shroud of Turin by Tony Cunliffe

Excerpt from the Foreword:

"We will have a close look at the Shroud itself, examine the science, identify the mysteries, study what the Bible says, follow the history, review what could have caused the image, and consider an explanation. Whatever your belief, I encourage you to keep an open mind as we examine the evidence the Shroud provides about the missing body."

Publisher: Peterbooks, 2023
Paperback: 26 pages
Language: English






Posted June 23, 2024

Shroud Related Videos and Audios

“The Role of the Shroud of Turin in Proving the Resurrection” [Editor note: Barrie himself does not believe the Shroud can prove the Resurrection]

There continues to be dozens of new Shroud videos each month. We can only highlight some of them here. For anyone who wants to see additional ones, my weekly email list has even more than found here. Everyone on the list is blind-copied and one can request at any time to be removed from the list. To be added, send me an email at JMarino240@aol.com .

Today's update includes a huge selection of links to interviews with or presentations by many notable Shroud scholars, from both scientific and religious points of view. It includes multiple interviews of Barrie Schwortz, as well as interviews or presentations from many other sindonologists, some very well known, others not as well known. But the sheer number of videos testifies to the ever-burgeoning interest in the Shroud.

Posted June 23, 2024

The Shroud on the Internet

Archbishop Robert Repole meets with Pope Francis druing Italian Episcopal Conference

This section contains some important information regarding the long-expected public exposition of the Shroud in 2025. However, it was not what everyone was hoping for. Other content includes an interesting article from 2023 about the artist Jan Van Eyck's depiction of the Face of Jesus, which contains 22 mentions of the Shroud, a recent article by the renowned Italian sindonologist, Emanuela Marinelli, a recent web page detailing the production of a 3D rendition of the face based on the actual Shroud, and a web site by the German sindonologist Helmut Feltzmann.

Posted June 23, 2024

And In Other News...

International Shroud Conference to be held in St. Louis, Missouri July 31 - August 3, 2025 Announcement - May 26, 2024 - [Editor' note: the conference web site is expected to go live very soon.]

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Email from Brazilian sindonologist Otangelo Grasso - May 19, 2024

I have created two PowerPoint presentations that might be useful for others. I am providing these presentations free of charge for anyone interested in using them for their own purposes or presentations, provided they are also used without any cost. You are welcome to modify the slides to suit your specific needs or tailor them to your target audience. These presentations can be downloaded from the following addresses:

Shroud of Turin, how Jesus REALLY looked like

Is the Shroud of Turin a fraud? Refuting the most common objections

I used them as basis to make these two videos [Editor's note: corresponding to the PowerPoint presentations above]

The Shroud of Turin: Empirical Exploration into Jesus' Scriptural Identity

Is the Shroud of Turin a fraud? Refuting the most common objections

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Email from Dr. Mario Po'sgsm of Venerated Confraternity of the Scuola Grande di San Marco Campo Ss. Giovanni e Paolo 6777 - Venice - May 19, 2024

Venerated Confraternity of the Scuola Grande di San Marco
Campo Ss. Giovanni e Paolo 6777 - Venice
confraternitasanmarco@scuolagrandesanmarco.it

For the attention of

Mr. Louis Cador, President

“Montre nous ton visage” Association3, rue Beaugrenelle 75015 Paris

Last Friday I met and asked S.Em.za Card. Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, his opinion on a proposal for an exhibition of the Holy Shroud dedicated to Peace, to be carried out in 2025 in relation to a prayer event dedicated to the many conflicts in the world. His informal response was positive.

There is probably no other relic like the holy sheet of Jesus that has within it the power of suffering, conversion and forgiveness. For this reason I think it is a duty and a privilege to show, in the most difficult and darkest moments of the history of humanity, this gift that we have received from the love of Christ crucified. Therefore, if not now, when?

For this reason, our institution, born in 1261 inspired by the flagellation of Jesus, asks other religious, cultural, scientific, Italian and foreign institutions (reported to me by Professor Emanuela Marinelli), convinced that the Shroud imprint was left by Son of God, to participate with us in the official presentation of this proposal to the Vatican authorities and those of the Diocese of Turin.

Grateful for your attention and your response, I send you my greetings with San Marco.

Mario Po' sgsm

Guardian Grando

Venerated Confraternity of the Scuola Grande di San Marco
Campo Ss. Giovanni e Paolo 6777 - Venice
confraternitasanmarco@scuolagrandesanmarco.it

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MAJOR Announcement with Jimmy Akin [Video] - Capturing Christianity - May 19, 2024 - [Editor's note: The Shroud-related material in this video is from 12:43 - 15:04. The reason this item is listed here is because there is information in the video about obtaining a 12“ Shroud sculpture made of bronze and steel, produced by sculptor Matt Collins. Retail value is $350 and is not available anywhere else. In the entry below about the exhibit in Florida, the exhibit contains a full-size sculpture by the same sculptor.

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New Shroud Exhibit in Florida: There is a new Shroud of Turin replica exhibit that includes a sculpture that was modeled from the Shroud. The summer hours are 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. * The location is at Ave Maria University in Florida. [Editor's note: see graphic below for more detailed information.]


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Announcement from “Shroud Academy” group May 2024 [Editor's note: This group was organized by Brazil-based sindonologist Otangelo Grasso. Further background can be found in the announcement below.]

Greetings friends,

We have an exciting opportunity to support an upcoming event that aligns with our mission of unraveling the Shroud of Turin and Sudarium of Oviedo in places where most never heard about it. Pastor Rajeev in Cheepurupalli, Andhrapradesh, South India is organizing a gathering for 100-130 pastors to attend Shroud Zoom presentations by Dr. Kenneth Stevenson and Guy Powell.

However, funds are needed to cover transportation and food costs for the attendees. This is where we need your generous support. If multiple donors can contribute just $5-$7 each, we can ensure this enlightening event proceeds smoothly.

As an added incentive, anyone donating $5 will receive a free digital copy (pdf format) of the book “From Forensics to Faith: The Shroud of Turin's History and Authenticity Under Scrutiny” by Otangelo Grasso. And for those donating $15 or more, you'll also receive the books “Confirming Yeshua, Volume 1 and 2” as gifts.

This event perfectly aligns with the Shroud Academy's mission of fostering engagement, exchange of research, global education, and outreach on the Shroud and Sudarium. Your donation will directly enable this knowledge-sharing in India.

We are building towards an ambitious global Shroud Institute and Academy. Your support for grassroots events like this lays the foundation. Together, we can uncover new insights while reaching wider audiences worldwide.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity. Let's make this Indian pastors' event a resounding success!

Sincerely,
The Shroud Academy Team

Our Mission:

Engagement and Exchange: We aim to foster a community where the latest research, theories, and perspectives can be shared in a dynamic and respectful environment, enriching our collective understanding of these historical artifacts.

Global Education and Outreach: Collaboratively, we will work towards initiatives that broaden awareness and deepen the understanding of the Shroud and the Sudarium, reaching audiences worldwide, especially in areas where people have never heard about these artifacts before.

Foundation of the Shroud Institute and Academy: Those who are part of this group, will be instrumental in shaping the vision and structure of an institution dedicated to becoming the forefront of study in this area.

The Shroud Academy holds monthly Zoom meetings to discuss and implement actions to increase outreach about the Shroud worldwide. If you want to get involved, please email ShroudAcademy@groups.io

The Shroud Academy is an ambitious global project that seeks to create a vibrant forum for discussion and exchange on the Shroud of Turin and Sudarium of Oviedo. It aims to lay the groundwork for an institution that will serve as a beacon of research, education, and dissemination in this fascinating field. The unique insights and expertise of its members are highly valued as they embark on this journey together.

[Update: Since that announcement was made, the event for Pastor Rajeev's group has been planned. The following was announced on the group's Facebook page:]

“We have scheduled a first Shroud Academy session for June 20th at 8:30AM EST / 7:30AM CST / 6:00PM IST with Pastor Rajeev. It will be at least 2 hours and we are expecting over 100 folks in India to participate. There will be more information to follow, but we wanted to let you know, so you can have the time reserved in your calendars. In any case, here is the zoom link if you'd like to listen in and join us: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9951250472?omn=89325585424 . ” It should be available on YouTube after the original live stream.]

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Email from author Dr. Brian Donley Worrell - May 1, 2024

WELCOME ABOARD, PAKISTAN! “The Shroud Of Turin - The Perfect Summary” (by Dr. Kenneth E. Stevenson and Dr. Brian Donley Worrell) is now available in URDU! The book is now in seven languages (English, Hebrew, Italian, Spanish, French, Portuguese and Urdu), is being read in 72 countries around the world, and has received very positive international book reviews. Also, check out the revamped website - one click translates any page into those seven languages.


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From Forensics to Faith: The Shroud of Turin's History and Authenticity Under Scrutiny By Otangelo Grasso - He made the following announcement on March 25, 2024:

My book is now available:

In Portuguese: Da ciência forense á fé: A história e a autenticidade do Sudário de Turim sob escrutínio

In Spanish: De la Ciencia Forense a la Fe: La Historia y la Autenticidad de la Sábana de Turín

In Italian: Dall esame forense alla fede: Storia e autenticità della Sindone di Torino sotto esame

On request: Urdu ( Pakistan ), Telugu ( India), Nepali [Editor's note: Otangelo can be contacted at OtangeloGrasso@gmail.com


Posted June 23, 2024

Our Next Update

Our next update will likely be around late November. The new team is still learning the ropes of getting these updates online. Please be patient with us.

You can also join our Website Mailing List and receive an e-mail whenever the site is updated (3 or 4 times per year) or when any important Shroud news breaks. Note that mailing list subscribers have access to special offers not available to the general public. If you are already a subscriber but have changed your e-mail address recently, please remember that we are a self-subscribed mailing list and you have to update your e-mail address or you will stop receiving our quarterly updates. This is easily accomplished by clicking on the Update Profile link at the bottom of every e-mail we send. And finally, thank you for your dedicated patronage and support of STERA, Inc. It is truly appreciated.

Joe Marino
Editor, Shroud.com
Vice President, STERA, Inc.
Posted June 23, 2024

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