It's one of the biggest mysteries in Christianity: Is the Shroud of Turin the actual burial cloth of Jesus Christ? Dive into the history of the cloth during a "Shroud Talk" at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia. The program will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 2.

Shrewsbury resident and historian Bill Wingard will present the program, which will feature a full-size replica of the Shroud.

"Mr. Wingard will present the history of the Shroud of Turin and the science behind the decades-long research into this mysterious artifact," explained Gerald Nikolaus, program coordinator for the Holy Trinity Holy Name of Jesus Society. "He will present scientifically proven facts, which lead one to a conscious acceptance that this may truly be the burial cloth of Jesus, the crucified Savior."

The program will offer a unique opportunity for people to learn more about the Shroud. "Many people know very little, if anything, about this ancient mysterious piece of cloth," he shared. "They will have a 'front-row seat,' so to speak, to view one of the few Shroud replicas in the United States. Christians of every denomination will hear a presentation given by someone who has spent years studying the scientific data gathered by experts from around the world, as they view the replica of the 14-plus-foot burial cloth. Many will be able to envision how Jesus was carefully wrapped in this Shroud as his body awaited the Resurrection."

People have been working to uncover the mysteries of the Shroud for centuries. The cloth holds an image only revealed by a photographic negative, but which many people believe contains evidence for the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus.

In his extensive research of the Shroud, Wingard has been mentored by scientists and experts in the field. He has presented "Shroud Talks" to churches, schools, organizations and other groups. When members of Holy Trinity attended presentations by Wingard, they knew they wanted him to speak at the Columbia church, Nikolaus said.

"The Holy Name of Jesus Society at Holy Trinity Parish, Columbia, is motivated to bring quality Christian religious programs of great interest to all Christian denominations in the spirit of ecumenism," he explained. "Such programs as the Shroud of Turin shine a bright light into an otherwise dark world."

No registration is required to attend the program. A freewill offering will be received.