My dear St. Agnes Family,
It is a joy to invite you to two presentations on the Shroud of Turin by Professor Fernando Figueredo, a cherished member of our parish family. Fernando and his wife, Celi, were married at St. Agnes 54 years ago, and he has belonged to our community for 51 years.
The presentation in English will take place Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The presentation in Spanish will be Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Both will be held in St. Agnes Catholic Church.
Our Guest Speaker
Fernando brings considerable experience. After 35 years in international corporate affairs, he taught Global Affairs at Florida International University for 15 years. He has followed research on the Shroud for 45 years and belongs to three organizations dedicated to its study in the United States, United Kingdom, and Spain. For eight years, he has shared his knowledge through presentations.
The Mystery and Our Faith
The Shroud, preserved in Turin since 1578, bears the faint image of a man who appears to have suffered scourging and crucifixion. Many believe it could be Jesus’ burial cloth. Its image invites us to contemplate the suffering of our Savior and the depth of His love.
Yet the Church has not declared the Shroud authentic. Its age and origin remain debated. Even if its authenticity were established, the cloth could not prove the Resurrection. Our faith rests not on an artifact, but on Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, and the apostles’ witness to Him.
Saint Paul reminds us: “If Christ has not been raised, then empty too is our preaching; empty, too, your faith” (1 Corinthians 15:14). The Resurrection is the foundation of Christian hope. The disciples encountered the risen Lord, and their fear became courage.
An Invitation to Encounter Christ
I warmly invite you to approach these presentations with curious minds and open hearts. Scientific questions deserve careful consideration, but the most important question is personal: When I contemplate the suffering reflected in the Shroud, do I recognize the love of my Savior?
May this opportunity draw our families closer to Jesus, whose Cross reveals the cost of love and whose Resurrection proclaims that death does not have the final word.
With my prayers and priestly blessing,
Fr. jc