I believe it is a fake because of the Gospel: “And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.” (John 20:7 KJV ). The shroud has an entire image of a man, including the head, which would not be possible if the head was wrapped.

I am not dogmatic about it, because this is not an article of faith. Fr Gregory is probably right, and some have come to the truth because of investigating or knowing about the shroud. As the Russians say, “Slava Bogu” (Glory be to God)

It is more important that people fast and pray, and struggle to live as Christians, than determining if the shroud is authentic, although the science is very interesting. I think Fr Gregory’s response is very sober.

Priest Seraphim Holland, St Nicholas, McKinney
BLOG: (Come and see!) Redeeming the Time http://www.orthodox.net/redeemingthetime

PS The roof is going on our new temple this week. http://www.orthodox.net/aboutus/building-fund.html.