In a way, I like to think I don't even want or need to know, because I don't want to need "proof" like the Apostle Thomas did. At the same time, it would be a nice feather in our caps to use when trying to bring people to Christ.
I visited. The guide was very sincere, explaining that the locals have too many accounts of miracles from visitors and locals for them to doubt its authenticity, but they do not rely on science to prove or convince anyone; they simply work to maintain the building and revere the Lord.
I did not personally experience a miracle when I was there. But someone I know well did, allowing me to witness. She was unaware of where she was, thinking the shroud would be at a more ornate cathedral planned for later in the day, and wondering what this rather undecorated place was. But entering the area of the shroud's display, she was overtaken by the spirit, and felt physically compelled to kneel and cry, shedding tears and repeating "I'm sorry" over and over while crying. She is normally a very cynical, proud woman who has only uttered those words on rare occasions, and even rarer with any sincerity. It moved her greatly. I hope it changed her; I don't know, but I knew her well enough to know the experience was unsought, and real.
In a way, I like to think I don't even want or need to know, because I don't want to need "proof" like the Apostle Thomas did. At the same time, it would be a nice feather in our caps to use when trying to bring people to Christ.
I visited. The guide was very sincere, explaining that the locals have too many accounts of miracles from visitors and locals for them to doubt its authenticity, but they do not rely on science to prove or convince anyone; they simply work to maintain the building and revere the Lord.
I did not personally experience a miracle when I was there. But someone I know well did, allowing me to witness. She was unaware of where she was, thinking the shroud would be at a more ornate cathedral planned for later in the day, and wondering what this rather undecorated place was. But entering the area of the shroud's display, she was overtaken by the spirit, and felt physically compelled to kneel and cry, shedding tears and repeating "I'm sorry" over and over while crying. She is normally a very cynical, proud woman who has only uttered those words on rare occasions, and even rarer with any sincerity. It moved her greatly. I hope it changed her; I don't know, but I knew her well enough to know the experience was unsought, and real.
Cool story! Thanks for taking the time to share it, fren!