The author examines the claims for the authenticity of the Cloth, both scientific and historical. His treatment of the Turin Shroud is in relation to the Cloth and the new evidence which it provides. The closing chapter sets out the implications of these findings for the Church today, and answers some of the sensational claims made in the more excitable Shroud books of the last few years. The argument is always based on historical foundations, rather than religious ones, thus avoiding the danger of influence from prior convictions.

This book will interest all who want a reasoned introduction to a subject which has caused fierce disputes among scholars, and all who are concerned with the relationship of faith and fact will be enlightened by this study.