Unshrouding the Mystery

Ancient artifact explored by expert in library-sponsored event

More than 250 people crowded into Tucker Theatre this past spring as Walker Library teamed up with Jones College of Business to present Shroud Encounter, an in-depth exploration of the mysterious Shroud of Turin.

The multimedia event was presented by international expert Russ Breault, who walked the audience through the historical significance of the cloth bearing the image of a 5-foot-10 bearded, crucified man with apparent wounds and bloodstains that match the crucifixion account of Jesus as recorded in the Bible. It is believed that the shroud is the most analyzed artifact in the world, and yet it remains a mystery.

Shroud Encounter was brought to campus for the first time thanks to generous support from MTSU alumnus Robbie Rogers.

In the program, Breault, who has been featured in documentaries broadcast nationally on CBS, The History Channel, and Discovery, discussed what is known about the cloth as well as what is still left to uncover.

Breault also brought a life-size reproduction of the shroud, displayed in the lobby of Tucker Theatre, so the audience could get an up-close look at many of the details discussed throughout the program.