The Saint John Paul II National Shrine will present a new exhibit during Lent 2025, titled “Lord, You Could Not Love Me More! Saint John Paul II and the Shroud of Turin.” The exhibit, which opens on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and runs through Easter Sunday, April 20, invites visitors to explore the Shroud’s historical significance, scientific study, and spiritual impact.
The exhibit responds to Saint John Paul II’s call for greater understanding and devotion to the Shroud of Turin, which many believe to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. During his 1998 visit to the Shroud, the late pope reflected on its profound mystery, describing it as “a truly unique sign that points to Jesus.”
A Journey Through Faith and Science
Visitors to the exhibit will encounter a full-scale replica of the Shroud of Turin, on loan from the National Shroud of Turin Exhibit, as well as over 30 gallery panels featuring historical and scientific insights. The centerpiece is “Exhibit at Saint John Paul II National Shrine Explores the Mystery of the Shroud of Turin.”
Dr. Lavoie, a medical expert on the Shroud and author of The Shroud of Jesus: And the Sign John Ingeniously Concealed, has studied the image for decades. “The raised, lifted Jesus, the result of a visual medical forensic journey of discovery, unlocks the mystery of the burial cloth left to us by God,” Lavoie said.
A Place for Pilgrimage and Reflection
The exhibit reflects Saint John Paul II’s belief in the interplay of faith and reason when examining ancient religious artifacts. “The Church entrusts to scientists the task of continuing to investigate,” he said in 1998, urging unbiased research into the Shroud’s origins.
Dr. Grattan Brown, Director of Mission & Ministry at the Shrine, emphasized the exhibit’s role in deepening spiritual reflection during Lent. “The Shroud connects us with Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, God’s most loving gift for humanity,” Brown said. “It is a joy for the Shrine to offer this exhibit so that our pilgrims may experience God’s mercy.”
A Multilingual Experience for the Community
As part of the Shrine’s ongoing efforts to serve its diverse Catholic community, the exhibit will be presented in both English and Spanish. Dr. Sofia Maurette, Director of Intercultural Ministry, noted that since 2023, the Shrine has worked to make all new installations accessible in multiple languages.
“We hope this exhibit will be a blessing for our diverse Catholic community in the D.C. area and throughout the nation,” Maurette said.
For more information or to schedule a visit, contact the Shrine at (202) 635-5401 or visit www.jp2shrine.org/contact.
