The Shroud of Turin, the burial cloth of Jesus, will be on display April 19 to June 24 in a new exposition that will coincide with Pope Francis’s visit to Turin, Italy. Msgr. Cesare Nosiglia, the Apostolic See’s appointed custodian of the Shroud, made the announcement in a recent press release.
On June 21, Pope Francis will visit the exposition, entitled “The Greatest Love,” during his two-day visit. Both the papal visit and the exposition will be characterized as a time for thanksgiving to St. Don Bosco, the patron of youth, who worked with the homeless boys of Turin.
The shroud, measuring 14.5 feet by 3.5 feet, displays the faint impression of Christ’s crucified body. The image is similar to negative film footage. The upcoming 67-day exhibition at the Cathedral of Turin will be the longest public display on record, according to the Catholic News Service.
As an aid to the sick pilgrims to the Shroud, the Diocese of Turin will provide a new facility for the sick and their caregivers. The building will be modeled after the hospitality centers at Lourdes.
Msgr. Nosiglia said that the Shroud “inspires our life and challenges us to fully realize our deepest vocation.” There will be opportunities for confession and eucharistic adoration during the exposition.
Access to the Shroud is free but donations are encouraged. All collected donations will be given to Pope Francis so that he can use the funds to aid the poor and needy. For more, including reservations, visit: www.sindone.org.
