This week marks the beginning of what Christians call Holy Week, a time to reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus. Nothing is more mysterious than the images and the face on the Shroud of Turin. This blog will update the reader on what is known and unknown regarding this mysterious burial cloth.

 The Image on the Shroud

 Jesus suffered a tortuous scourging and death after being nailed to a wooden cross. He died in the afternoon and was laid within a tomb quickly before sundown which marked the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath. The opening of the tomb was sealed, and Roman soldiers were placed outside to guard it.

Then he (Joseph of Arimathea) took it (crucified body of Jesus) down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid. It was the day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed and saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then they returned and prepared spices and ointments. On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment.  (Luke 23:53-56).

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” He is not here but has risen(Luke 24: 1-6).

Forensic scientists have been astounded at the detailed images of a crucified and scourged man with long hair and horrific wounds that correlate accurately with the Bible’s detail of the crucifixion of Jesus.

The Shroud is a linen cloth 14 feet long by 3 feet wide that clearly shows the blood stains from the horrific scourging that he suffered. The man’s wrists and feet show holes where nails were inserted into them. Blood stains from sharp jagged thorns surround his head (Crown of Thorns). A pierced wound appears on his right side with bruising on his shoulders from carrying a heavy object (the wooden cross).

The crucified man was dead, and in rigor mortis when removed. His head was bent over as one would expect from struggling to breathe while hanging on the cross. He was laid on the cloth which was then folded to cover him. Images were captured on both his front and back side.

The Shroud of Turin has been postulated to be the very linen burial cloth of the resurrected Jesus Christ. Despite thousands of hours studying it, with advanced modern technology, no one has been able to ascertain “How did those images get on that linen?” To date there has never been anything like these images from any burial cloths anywhere in the world.

History of the Shroud of Turin

It certainly makes sense that early Christians would have preserved and protected the burial cloth of Jesus from invaders and others at war in the Holy Lands. It’s believed that one of the disciples took the Shroud to a king in Edessa, Turkey who believed it could heal him in 57 AD. He became a Christian and it was called the Image of Edessa.

Shortly thereafter the Shroud was hidden behind a stone wall. It remained there until 525 AD when a flood damaged the wall. During the repairs the Shroud was discovered. Interestingly, it was at this time that the paintings of Jesus changed to look like the image of the man on the Shroud.

By 944 AD the Shroud was moved to Constantinople. However, the French crusader Knight Geoffroi de Charney is credited with bringing it back from the Middle East to Lirey, France in 1354.

In 1389 it was purchased by a wealthy French family from the granddaughter of Charney. It was passed down through the years. In 1578 it was willed to the Pope with the stipulation that it remain in Turin’s Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Scientific  Investigations 

To the naked eye it’s difficult to see the image. The secrets of the Shroud were hidden for nearly 2,000 years until technology revealed the image more clearly.

1898: Secondo Pia was hired to take the first photograph of the Shroud. During development, he was stunned that the photograph’s negative revealed a lifelike three-dimensional image of a man’s face and body.

1902: The first medical forensic exam of the images on the Shroud occurred. They found the man was crucified in the same way as Jesus and believed it to be his burial linen cloth.

1978: A team of scientists (Shroud of Turin Research Project STURP) investigated the cloth using X-rays, infrared analysis, microscopy and chemical tests. They found that the image was not from paint, dye, or any known artistic methods. There were no brush strokes normally seen with forgeries nor a saturation of the fabric. They concluded: It was formed by a superficial discoloration of the outermost linen fibers, so shallow that it penetrated less than a human hair’s width into the cloth…not the product of an artist…a mystery.

1988: Small fragments of fabric were cut from the end of the cloth and tested by three independent laboratories using radiocarbon dating. Those pieces dated between 1260 and 1390 AD (Medieval Times). Controversy arose immediately due to the location of the cloth removed. In 1532 a fire damaged the Shroud but miraculously didn’t destroy it. The damaged areas were repaired by nuns with material from that period. Researchers questioned the validity of the dating since those sections were at the ends of the cloth repair and contaminated by handling, smoke and other items.

2002: A mosaic dating to 500 AD was found and believed to be the Image of Edessa. The face on the mosaic was very similar to the face on the Shroud.

2022: Wide Angle X-ray Scattering technology was used to date the Shroud to the 1^st century between 55 AD and 74 AD anchoring it closer to the time of Jesus.

Recent DNA Analysis

In 2015 dust samples were taken from various locations on the Shroud for DNA analysis. By 2022 scientists were allowed to repeat DNA analysis with updated technology on the dust previously studied. Skeptics hypothesized that handling through the years would make analysis difficult.

However, they were shocked to find the same information wherever they looked. Barrie Schwortz, a Jewish skeptic was part of the 1978 investigative team who developed the website shroudofturin.com. He summarized recent DNA findings: The genetic profile was unlike any known population…It does not fit our understanding of human population genetics.

Finally, it may have been a blinding, blast of radioactive light during the resurrection that generated the unusual unique image on the cloth. While much has been learned, much remains unknown. It’s as much a mystery as God’s other creations.

On A Personal Note

As a Lutheran Christian, I’m awed at this linen cloth because it reminds me so much of the sacrifice Jesus made for all of us. The silent face draws me in for deeper reflection. As a PhD nursing scientist, I’m humbled that despite the best technology of today, many questions remain unanswered. In the end, I believe.

The season of Lent and the celebration of Easter remain the foundation of Christianity. It’s a time to thank and praise Jesus. If you’d like to learn more about Jesus and Christianity, you may find the following resources helpful.

The Chosen Series -a beautiful drama of what life was like when Jesus walked with His followers.

Expedition Bible– Christian archeologist Joel Kramer travels to the Middle East to highlight locations where events from the Bible probably occurred.

Wesley Huff– a Christian expert in the history of ancient biblical manuscripts (wesleyhuff.com).

The English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible– either audio via an app or hard copy ESV Study Bible. Explanations follow scripture.

May this year draw you closer to a better understanding of Jesus. Don’t be afraid to attend your local Christian church and learn about Him. Thursday is Maundy Thursday where Jesus met in a room to say goodbye to his followers with the breaking of bread and wine in communion.

And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise, the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” (Luke 22: 19-20).

Good Friday was when the earth darkened, an earthquake erupted, and Jesus died on the Cross. Now from the sixth hour, there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour…And the earth shook, and the rocks were split…When the Centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (Matthew 27: 45-54).

However, on Sunday He rose from the dead. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time… (1 Corinthians 15:6). Easter is the day to celebrate this life is but a brief moment in time. He rose and all who believe in Jesus will join Him in Heaven for all eternity.

May God bless you and keep you this Easter. My favorite verse…

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33).

 I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare.

References

“Shroud of Turin Website,” (February 7, 2026) https://shroud.com/

“Visible Wounds and Injuries,” British Society for the Shroud of Turin (2026). https://shroudofturin.uk/research-evidence/forensic-evidence/injuries-depicted  

 “Shroud, Challenges to Authenticity,” Dr. John Campbell Today (November 8, 2025). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY59XfAtQVQ

“The Shroud of Turin: Between Faith, Mystery, and Science,” Science News Today (September 26, 2025). https://www.sciencenewstoday.org/the-shroud-of-turin-between-faith-mystery-and-science

Schwortz, “The New DNA Results Are In-What We Found On the Shroud of Turin Is Impossible,” (February 22, 2026). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jccl52OHNuY

February is Heart Month and a great time to focus on heart attack and stroke prevention. The Coronary Artery (Non-contrast) Calcium Score Test is an accurate test to measure whether plaque is building up in the coronary (heart) arteries years before a heart attack occurs. However, few get this test and far too many people die each year from a heart attack that could have been prevented.

What It Detects
Atherosclerosis is the medical term for plaque buildup in the arteries. When born the arteries are smooth like the inside of the cheek. Risk factors damage the inside lining. High blood pressure roughens up the lining much like sandpaper. Excess blood glucose scratches it while moving through it. Smoking makes the blood very sticky and more likely to clump together.

Inflammation is the process where white blood cells move into the damaged area to heal it becoming red and swollen much like a pimple. LDL (Bad) cholesterol moving through the blood can become lodged in the wounded areas. Over time calcium deposits form from the inflammation. These deposits can be seen on X-ray (see arrow).

 Over time the process worsens, and the damaged areas are vulnerable to rupture. Blood then comes in contact with the plaque buildup and a major blood clot forms which blocks the artery. Vital blood carrying oxygen can’t pass through. Most immediately experience pain and discomfort and some die from the erratic electrical fibrillations that stop the heart completely. The previous diagram shows how the rupture forms a blood clot.

Note that this plaque buildup is identified by the amount of calcium deposits noted on the test, a marker for atherosclerosis or plaque buildup. It’s called a subclinical diagnosis because most are unaware of the impending danger as it is occurring.

How It Works
Around 2000 a technology was developed that could capture X-ray images in between heart beats while the heart was briefly at rest. It examines the 4 main coronary arteries: left main, left anterior descending, circumflex, and right coronary artery. The amount visualized is tabulated into a total score. The radiation exposure in a non-contrast test is somewhat less than a mammogram.

What Do the Results Mean?
In simple terms it determines if one has none, small, moderate or a large amount of plaque building up. Atherosclerosis forms silently. It doesn’t cause a problem until the heart attack occurs. Those found to have larger amounts are treated more aggressively to prevent any further buildup. The following table provides general guidelines.

Who Should Get the Test?
It is generally recommended for men over 40 and women over 50 with risk factors or a strong family history of heart disease. If your sister or brother had a heart attack you may have similar genetic vulnerabilities, and the test would rule out if you’re also at risk.

It is not recommended for anyone who had a heart attack. You’re at much greater risk for a second one and already should be receiving aggressive risk factor reduction care. The test would not add anything to your care plan.

Prevention: The Eight Essential Lifestyles
The following 8 Essential Risk Factors were identified by the American Heart Association. Managing them would help tremendously to improve heart health. Do check with your healthcare provider before initiating an exercise program.

1. Quit smoking
2. Increase physical activity
3. Eat a healthy diet
4. Manage a healthy weight
5. Get a good night’s sleep
6. Lower LDL cholesterol
7. Keep blood pressure <135/85
8. Keep fasting blood glucose <100

Statin Controversy
Recently a great deal of controversy arose regarding statin therapy and lowering LDL cholesterol. Good points have been raised regarding the accuracy and validity of earlier research connecting excess LDL cholesterol and heart disease. One of the most vocal who challenges the wisdom of statin treatment is Dr. Paul Saladino. He lives in Costa Rica, surfs 2 hours each day and consumes a diet rich in fish and fresh vegetables. However, even he agrees and stated:

If you’re insulin resistant and we lower your LDL cholesterol, your risk for heart disease is unequivocally lower. However, we didn’t treat the real cause which is insulin resistance or a metabolic disorder.

Interestingly, he is right of course but far too many people in America are insulin resistant and loaded with risk factors for heart disease. They most definitely would benefit from lowering LDL cholesterol. Once it’s lowered less will be available to move into inflamed areas which will then begin to heal.

Insulin resistance is a cluster primarily of several risk factors: excess weight, high blood pressure and glucose, low Healthy HDL (Good) Cholesterol, and inactivity. If those were controlled the need for statins might be reduced significantly.

However, some people live a very healthy lifestyle but inherited a liver that produces too much LDL cholesterol. The statin blocks an enzyme needed to make LDL cholesterol.

The best advice is to get the screening Non-contrast Coronary Artery Calcium Score test and follow up with a healthcare provider. If the score is low, you can focus on lifestyle changes. If it’s in the moderate or high range further tests may be needed to determine if that larger amount of plaque buildup is getting in the way of blood flow. Aggressive lifestyle changes will benefit everyone and statin therapy for those with positive calcium deposits.

On A Personal Note
Around 2000 our heart institute in the Chicago area was a beta site for this new technology. We asked patients to complete a form that indicated how they were controlling risk factors, drew blood to measure glucose and cholesterol levels and took a blood pressure. I was one of the cardiac nurses who sat with the patient and reviewed the preliminary calcium score results, their lifestyle choices, bloodwork and blood pressure.

One day I sat with a CEO executive from a Fortune 500 company and a truck driver. It was fascinating to learn that their questions were very similar. We found some people who were headed down the track at a rapid speed toward a heart attack and potential death. It was gratifying to intervene before the event and prevent that horrible outcome. Others just needed to tweak their risk factors and be more aware of their potential risk.

I now live in northern Idaho near Spokane, Washington. A few years ago, there were only 2 places to get this test. It’s now available at all radiology centers. It baffles my mind that few insurance carriers cover it even though it’s highly recommended by national guidelines.

During heart month most offer discounts if you pay out-of-pocket. Call your local facility and ask if they are offering a special during heart month. Most do. Give yourself a gift and get screened. Do what you can to live a healthier lifestyle. Don’t resist medications if your healthcare provider thinks you need them. If you’ve had this test, please comment below with your experience.

My first book Wake Up Call 911: It’s Time to Reduce your Risk for a Heart Attack and Stroke is available for $15 (which includes shipping). Just send me an email through my website and I’ll mail you a copy (www.jenniejohnsonrn.com). It’s a book that helps people reduce risk factors with simple changes.

Finally, I saw first-hand the magic of this test in really changing people’s lives. If they could be shown the silent damage building up, they were more motivated to make those changes to prevent a heart attack and take the medication prescribed by their doctor. You can view it in my article (note reference below).

Blessings to you all, as you take better care of the body God has given you, Jennie

Remember: Genetics loads the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger.

and

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10: 31).

References

 “Screening: How Much Radiation is in a Heart CT for Calcium Scoring?” HelpDementia.com (September 17, 2025). https://helpdementia.com/screening-how-much-radiation-is-in-a-heart-ct-for-calcium-scoring/

“Coronary Artery Calcium Staging to Guide Preventive Interventions: A Proposal & Call to Action,” Journal of the American College of Cardiology (September 25, 2024). https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacadv.2024.101287

“The Shawn Ryan Show: Paul Saladino SRS #179,” Vigilance Elite (March 5, 2025). https://shawnryanshow.com/blogs/the-shawn-ryan-show/srs-179-paul-saladino-the-fda-approved-poison-you-eat-every-day

1. Johnson, Wake Up Call 911: It’s Time to Reduce your risk for a Heart Attack and Stroke (2015) jenniejohnsonrn.com $15 (includes shipping), https://jenniejohnsonrn.com
2. Johnson, Does Knowledge of Coronary Artery Calcium Affect Cardiovascular Risk Perception, Likelihood of Taking Action, Health-promoting Behavior Change? Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing (January-February 30, 2015). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24434820/

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare

Author of Wake UP Call 911: It’s Time to Reduce your Risk for A Heart Attack and Stroke (2015) and Helping the Hurting: Nursing Ministry in the Body of Christ (2022).

Paperback copies of both books for sale. Email me for details at:  ask@jenniejohnsonrn.com.

 While the holidays are a joyous time spent with family and friends, it can be a disaster for waistlines. The tastiest cuisines are often high in sugar, saturated fats, salt and alcoholic beverages. Processed foods abound.

However, holiday food is a wonderful gift of life. (For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4: 4-5).

 While it’s important to enjoy holiday food, it’s also imperative to do it sensibly. How does one navigate the food minefields?  Nutritionists, psychologists and weight loss experts have contributed great insights into healthier eating during the holidays.
My patients have found the following 10 tips the most helpful. 

1. Reduce stress by buying and wrapping your gifts early and scale back your holiday decorations.
2. When confronted with a smorgasbord of food choices, select very small portions.
3. Eat a meal before attending the party. If your stomach is full, you’ll graze less.
4. Add more lean protein to your diet throughout the day which is digested slower.
5. Reduce alcohol consumption to reduce a trigger for cravings.
6. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration increases cravings.
7. Focus on getting a good night’s sleep.
8. Forgive yourself, if you eat poorly one day, eat healthy the next.
9. Be active. Go for a walk while listening to music.
10. Finally, most importantly, attend church. Jesus is the reason for the season. He will give you the peace which passes all understanding.

Don’t deprive yourself of a good time. Just be sensible and you can have your cake and eat it too. Merry Christmas from our house to yours…

 Candy Cane Poem (author unknown)

Look at the candy cane. What do you see?

Stripes that are red, like the blood shed for me.

White is for my Savior, who’s sinless and pure!

J is for Jesus, my Lord, that’s for sure!

Turn around, and a staff you will see.

Jesus my Shepherd, was born for me!

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:11).

I’m a Christian nurse who helps people navigate the murky waters of healthcare

Author of Wake UP Call 911: It’s Time to Reduce your Risk for A Heart Attack and Stroke (2015) and Helping the Hurting: Nursing Ministry in the Body of Christ (2022).

Paperback copies of both books for sale. Email me for details at:  ask@jenniejohnsonrn.com.