The Holy Shroud, or Shroud of Turin, is a linen cloth measuring 4.41 metres in length and 1.13 metres in width. One of its sides bears the reproduction of the frontal and dorsal image of a man who died after being crucified. The front and back of the cloth preserve a faint brownish image whose intensity varies according to the distance between the body and the fabric. The reddish stains are blood.

An ancient tradition identifies this Shroud with the cloth that wrapped the body of Jesus. Indeed, the correspondence between what the Shroud reveals and the historical account of the Passion of Christ, as recorded in the Gospels, is remarkable.

Whatever the answer may be, throughout the centuries this cloth has strengthened the faith of millions of Christians, heightened sensitivity to the sufferings of Christ, and inspired a response of love. Today, it can help us to know and appreciate more deeply the Passion of Jesus and His suffering for the redemption of all human beings.