Catholic References
Dr. Bob Webber, Principal, St. Frederick High School, Monroe, LA
Megan Lowes, Pastoral Associate for Saint Clarence Parish, Cleveland, OH
Tara Splonskowski, Staff Associate, St. Paul’s Newman Center, NDSU, Fargo ND
The presentation was absolutely fantastic and very well received. Russ has a very entertaining speaking style, moving through a lot of material smoothly. And what material! This is a man who has spent his adult life studying this relic of our Lord, and we were all captivated. Russ covered the history, the science and the intrigue … like a good detective story. We all walked away with a faith filled sense of wonder and awe.
Judy Rudderow, Event Organizer and Sponsor, Lambertville, NJ
Cody Egner, ChM, Regional Director of Religious Education, St. Anthony ~ St. Cecilia ~ St. Margaret-St. John, Cincinnati, OH
I received many comments in appreciation about how you added a spiritual aspect to the science of the Shroud; it gave them something to think about and share with others. Mary Zachariasen—DRE, Mother Teresa Catholic Church, Topeka, KS
No matter how much you think you know about the Shroud, Russ’ presentation gives you more and deeper insight into this mystery of our Christian faith than one could imagine. Clear and fast-moving, Russ’ presentation kept you excited and wanting even more understanding into this marvel of Christianity. Well worth your time.” Fr. Bill Cosgrove, St. Augustine, New City, NY
Great presentation! Thank you for the insightful and informative evening–truly inspired by the compelling evidence. Our youth pastor wrote me and said, “It was awesome on Saturday!!!! It deepened my faith as I stared at the Shroud replica. Truly amazing!!! ” Claudette Lussier, Pastoral Assistant, St. James Church, Manville, Rhode
I wasn’t sure what to expect for the Shroud Encounter. Sure, I had seen the reviews, watched the Youtube videos, but what would this presentation really be like? ALL of my expectations were exceeded on this presentation. I cannot say enough how grateful I am for hosting this event on the campus of Minnesota State University, Mankato. Some even said it was the best thing they have ever witnessed on campus! Truly, a phenomenal presentation. Even though Russ has given this presentation countless times, he treated us as if we were his only audience. What a great way to present and keep our attention the entire time. When I was leaving, what impressed me was that students continued to talk about the presentation and linger…it was as if we were in the presence of something holy (regarding lifesize replica), even though a representation…still a link to why we are here in the first place. I am so glad we brought the Shroud Encounter to campus. We will make this a part of our experience every 4 years. Well worth every single penny! Father Timothy Biren, St. Thomas More Catholic Newman Assoc, Minnesota State University, Mankato
It is very rare that someone is able to grab my attention for an hour and a half straight without loosing it, Russ did just that with his Shroud Encounter event. It was one of the most interesting events I have ever seen! The students at Newman couldn’t stop talking about it. A must see for anyone interested in going deeper in their faith. A great reminder of the sacrifice of Christ. Joe Bakken, Campus Minister, St. Thomas More Catholic Newman Center
See the pictures they posted to their Facebook Page
“The Shroud Encounter is a tremendous presentation. Russ Breault does an outstanding job of taking the audience through the history, science and mystery of the Shroud. This is a ‘MUST ATTEND’ conference for believers and skeptics alike!” Bernie Schaefer, Development Director, Spirit Catholic Radio, Omaha
Tracy Finke, Director of Religious Education, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Huntsville, AL
FROM THE CHURCH BULLETIN A WEEK LATER:
“The presentation by world-renowned expert Russ Breault was amazing! Captivating, historically accurate, humorous at times, faith-building and enlightening—this presentation only cemented my faith and the connection it has to the Shroud of Turin. Connecting actual historical events, the Gospels, even the Stations of the Cross and our Catholic Church teachings and traditions—Mr. Breault made a case for looking at the Shroud of Turin with eyes of faith and seeing that faith and reason—faith and science—are not opponents but rather “dance partners” in that science is the search for truth—and the Faith of Jesus Christ is the ultimate Truth. Learning that the pope is the owner of the Shroud we come to understand that it is truly a gift from God to help reveal the mystery of His Divine Life to us. If you missed this presentation—it truly is your loss.” Father Michael Whyte, Pastor, Saint Catherine of Siena Parish, West Simsbury, CT
“The Shroud Encounter was a most dynamic and fascinating presentation. Bringing Church history and our Judeo-Christian roots, as well as archeological, theological and Scriptural sources, there were many answers to the questions our parishioners wondered about. Both the images and the research were outstanding. Our church was filled to capacity, including over 140 high school students from our parish and neighboring parishes. Everyday, someone who attended the Shroud Encounter is telling me how much they enjoyed the presentation and that they continue to think about the possibility that, indeed, the Shroud of Turin may be the actual burial cloth of Jesus. Russ was able to synthesize the many pieces of the puzzle that make up the mystery of the Shroud of Turin in a way that was accessible to all who attended.” Kathi Bonner, Director of Religious Education, Saint Catherine of Siena Parish, West Simsbury, CT
Some comments we have received: “I had been skeptical however it has deepened my faith which is major.” “Very moving and will last a lifetime in my memory.”–Father Gary Schlack, Pastor, Blessed Sacrament Church, Kitchner, Ontario, Canada
I thought I had read, seen and heard all there was on the Shroud of Turin but that all changed with the presentation by Russ Breault at DeSales University. His explanation of the science, history and art of the Shroud gave his audience a unique perspective and his delivery of the facts based in scripture bordered on genius. If you have the chance to see him speak grab it with both hands! Lore Mcfadden-Westwood, Event Coordinator, DeSales University
Russ Breault’s presentation was unbelievable! Our audience was captivated. We cannot thank him enough. Thomas F. Dailey, O.S.F.S., Director, Salesian Center for Faith and Culture
We hosted Russ Breault’s “Shroud Encounter” on a Sunday afternoon during Lent when we thought we might attract folks from nearby parishes and even from our neighboring Protestant churches (which we did). The presentation covered the subject most thoroughly. To contemplate the Passion of the Man of the Shroud during Lent was of deep spiritual benefit to our people. I would highly recommend Mr. Breault’s presentation to other priests or pastors. Fr. Charles Byrd, Our Lady of the Mountains, Jasper, GA
I was very impressed with Russ Breault’s presentation. He engaged and captivated our audience. His program was well researched and presented. I would highly recommend the Shroud Encounter for any audience! Vanessa Walsh, Retreat & Communications Coordinator, Office of Campus Ministry, University of Saint Thomas, Minneapolis
“On Tuesday night students gathered to hear an incredible presentation on the Shroud of urin. “It was amazing!” Freshman Fran Ginski said.”–The Christendom College Chronicler, Front Royal, VA
The response to Shroud Encounter has been overwhelming with most people wishing they could see it again! Russ’ presentation appeals to just about anyone as he takes you on a guided tour of the Shroud from a historical, biblical, philosophical and scientific aspect-leaving no stone unturned. Given the opportunity we would gladly ask Russ back. Christopher L. Bush, Business Manager, St. Mark’s Church, Rochester, NY
Superlative Presentation! Russ Breault’s CSI approach left our audience of 350+ spellbound. Drawing upon the fruit of decades of scientific research (conducted by a variety of eminent scholars in their respective fields), his big screen Shroud Encounter was as informative as it was engaging. I most enthusiastically recommend this one-of-a-kind presentation. Fr. Joseph Marquis, Sacred Heart Byzantine Catholic Church, Livonia, MI
Superlative Presentation! Russ Breault’s CSI approach left our audience of 350+ spellbound. Drawing upon the fruit of decades of scientific research (conducted by a variety of eminent scholars in their respective fields), his big screen Shroud Encounter was as informative as it was engaging. I most enthusiastically recommend this one-of-a-kind presentation. Fr. Joseph Marquis, Sacred Heart Byzantine Catholic Church, Livonia, MI
Russ Breault is dynamic. His five presentations for Ave Maria Radio’s week long Shroud of Turin tour throughout Southeast Michigan, were wonderful. Speaking to rapt audiences in each location, Russ brought new insight and understanding to the Mystery of the Shroud of Turin. Truly an expert, Russ held the crowds in the palm of his hand. The visuals, the stories, the history, the chronology, and most interestingly, the science behind the Shroud were all presented in a professional energetic style that only Russ Breault can deliver. Shroud Encounter is truly an event you won’t want to miss and if you are the one looking for an event to bring to your community, here’s your chance to be a hero. Michael P. Jones, Vice President, General Manager, Ave Maria Radio
“I want to thank you Russ for an awesome presentation at our Cathedral in Philadelphia. Shroud Encounter was inspiring, fast moving and educational. Your professional, and yet personal interpretation of the facts about the Shroud of Turin offered a unique insight into the scientific, scriptural and historical facts concerning the Shroud. I can’t thank you enough!” Rev. Archpriest Daniel Troyan, Director for Evangelization. Archeparchy of Philadelphia
“We continue to observe many visitors to the exhibition of the replica of the Shroud of Turin at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral in Philadelphia. Your visit and special presentations served to inform and inspire interest about the Shroud. I am aware of many visitors who have attended because of the enthusiastic encouragement given by participants at the time of your presentation. Your dedication and zeal in this endeavor is admirable. The presentations were well developed and delivered in an interesting and engaging manner. Thank you for sharing your giftedness and knowledge.” Stefan Soroka—Metropolitan Archbishop, Archeparchy of Philadelphia