AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE THAT WILL ENGAGE PEOPLE WITH CHRIST
ESTABLISHING A LEGACY IN ORANGE COUNTY
WHAT IS IT?
A world-class 360-degree immersive museum encounter that first takes visitors through interactive stories of the life of Jesus. Then the exhibit examines the world’s most studied artifact...
The Shroud of Jesus (also known as The Shroud of Turin) through science and scriptures. Finally, the experience focuses on the resurrection and days that follow through 3D recreations that lead people to reflect on the question...
“Who Do You Say That I Am?”
Included among our objectives:
+ Situated on the Christ Cathedral campus, we will engage people who seek to know more of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
+ Show how science & faith can co-exist and can provide convincing evidence of the authenticity of The Shroud of Turin.
+ Inspire those who might have only a casual faith, and provide an experience where the reality of Jesus can invite them into a more devout and sacramental prayer life.
IMMERSIVE ROOM 1: 360 DEGREE LIFE OF JESUS
Step into The Shroud of Turin Immersive Experience at Christ Cathedral and be transported through time and space to experience the life of Jesus in a breathtaking cinematic journey. As you enter the immersive room, you're surrounded by state-of-the-art projection technology that brings 10 pivotal stories from Jesus' life to vivid, larger-than-life reality. From the miraculous annunciation to Mary and the humble birth in Bethlehem, to Jesus' baptism and calling of the disciples, each scene unfolds with amazing visual detail and immersive sound design woven through the exhibit.
As the story progresses, witness Jesus' awe-inspiring miracles, including feeding the five thousand and walking on water. Feel the emotional weight of the Last Supper and the crucifixion, beautifully and respectfully portrayed through cutting-edge visual effects. This room ends with the somber crucifixtion and journey to the tomb. This cinematic encounter offers a unique and powerful way to connect with the story of Jesus, making ancient history feel immediate and relevant for audiences of all backgrounds.
THIS IS A CATECHISM THAT COMES TO LIFE AND ENGAGES EVERY GENERATION
IMMERSIVE ROOM 2: THE SHROUD OF CHRIST | EVIDENCE OF THE RESURRECTION
As you enter the Shroud room, you're immediately engaged in a setting that brings the world's most studied artifact to life. You will be led through the fascinating history and scientific evidence surrounding the Shroud, from its mysterious origins to the groundbreaking discoveries of modern researchers.
Through stunning visuals and expert commentary, witness the Shroud's intricate details come to life - from the unique 3D-encoded image to the pollen traces from ancient Jerusalem. Follow the narrative as you observe high-resolution images on the shroud, revealing bloodstains, wound patterns, and other forensic evidence that aligns with the Gospel accounts of Jesus' crucifixion. Cutting-edge animations visualize theories about how the image might have been formed during the resurrection, leaving visitors with a profound sense of wonder at the intersection of scientific inquiry and faith.
THE MYSTERY OF THE MOST STUDIED ARTIFACT IN THE WORLD
IMMERSIVE ROOM 3: THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION
In room 3 you will be transported in a 4D immersive experience through time and space to witness the awe-inspiring events following Jesus' resurrection. As you enter the room, you're suddenly surrounded by the sights and sounds of ancient Judea. Watch in wonder as Jesus appears to his disciples in a locked room, inviting Thomas to touch his wounds. Feel the excitement build as over 500 people gather to see the risen Christ, their faces etched with amazement and joy. Witness intimate moments between Jesus and his followers as he prepares them for his ascension, the air bursting with emotion and the promise of things to come.
In a stunning transition, the room seamlessly transforms into a 15th-century French Catholic chapel, where the Shroud of Christ is reverently displayed. Marvel at the intricate details of the medieval architecture as it materializes around you, complete with flickering candlelight and the soft echo of Gregorian chants. Get an up-close view of the Shroud as it would have appeared centuries ago, its mysterious image captivating pilgrims and scholars alike. This immersive journey through time not only brings the post-resurrection stories to life but also highlights the enduring impact and allure surrounding the Shroud, connecting past and present in a profound and unforgettable experience. You will then sit quietly and contemplate the question... "Who Do You Say That I Am?"
THE MYSTERY OF THE MOST STUDIED ARTIFACT IN THE WORLD
INTERACTIVE 4: THE MUSEUM
The interactive museum space offers a comprehensive exploration of the mysterious linen, the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. Visitors are greeted by a life-size reproduction of the Shroud, showcasing the unique photographic negative-like image of a crucified man. The museum's centerpiece is a permanent exhibition featuring 30 interactive wall panels, 3 kiosks, and 8 LED displays that guide guests through the Shroud's history, scientific research, and spiritual significance. Highlights include a bronze statue of the Man of the Shroud, holograms, and reconstructions of passion objects like nails, the crown of thorns, and flagrums.
The museum goes beyond mere display, offering hands-on scientific exhibits provided by Othonia from the Pontifical University Regina Apostolorum in Rome. These interactive experiences allow visitors to engage directly with the ongoing research and debates surrounding the Shroud's authenticity and characteristics. A scale reproduction of the Holy Sepulcher from Jesus' time provides historical context, while a multimedia presentation and a wall mural depicting the Shroud in art through history offer diverse perspectives on its cultural impact. The exhibition aims to foster dialogue between science and faith, inviting visitors to deepen their understanding of the Resurrection. A unique "Shroud Selfie Station" adds a modern, interactive element to the experience, allowing visitors to engage with the artifact in a personal way.
“This has the potential to engage millions individuals who
may have never encountered Jesus and the story of the
resurrection in a way that will transform their life.”
WHAT IMPACT WILL THIS HAVE?
In just 5-years, we have the opportunity to connect
with over a million visitors bringing them into a transformative experience on the Christ Cathedral campus. The real measurement will be defined by those who's lives are transformed by this exhibit! The exhibit also will be available to license the content and experience for other countries.
WHEN AND WHERE?
The exhibit will open in mid-2025. It will be located on the second floor of the Richard H. Pickup Cathedral Cultural Center designed by architect Richard Meier (who then similarly designed the Getty Center Museum in L.A.).
WHAT WILL IT COST?
This is a world-class exhibit that matches other local museums and attractions. It will require $4 million for build-out and immersive content development. We have at least two existing advantages; a museum-quality building and the opportunity to partner with Othonia, an apostolate of the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum located in Rome, Italy.
WHO IS BEHIND THIS?
This is a unique partnership between The Diocese of Orange and Othonia along with a team of renowned global Shroud experts including: Fr. Robert Spitzer, SJ, Fr. Andrew Dalton, LC STD, and Professor Emanuela Marinelli. It is built on a 20-year history of Shroud projects and efforts and the The Southern California Shroud Center here in Orange County.
"The Shroud of Turin is one of the most scientifically tested relics in history, and it has a lot of information that correlates beautifully with the Gospel message."
Fr. Robert Spitzer S.J., Magis Center for Reason & Faith
