8th grade Presents on the Shroud of Turin

May 14, 2026

The shroud of Turin, the historic piece of linen allegedly wrapped around Christ’s body after his death, is very literally shrouded in mystery. Yet Blake Malatestinic’s 8th grade class closed out this year by researching and presenting on this disputed subject.

Blake Malatestinic taking notes and observing student presentations on the Shroud of Turin

With respect for the topic at hand and a budding talent for oration, the last two presenters took stage: Aliyah Bunton & Jacob Thoele. The rest of the students sat quiet and engaged. Mr. Malatestinic took notes from the back

Jacob Thoele presenting on the Shroud of Turin

Jacob’s Presentation

Jacob’s presentation demonstrated a breadth of knowledge that was impressive, especially for his age. Mr. Malatestinic noted “I was able to see with Jacob the ability to understand scientific content enough to publicly, clearly, and comfortably speak on it. His projection and outline of his presentation was extremely easy to follow.”

Jacob’s focus ranged from medical reports on the injuries the shroud indicates to cultural traditions and common language uses at the time of Christ’s death. For instance, did you know that in Christ’s time the greek word for “hands” referred not only to hands but also to the wrists? Or that for a jewish burial service expensive spices were often used in the process— spices that are present in the shroud? Jacob’s conclusion is that the Shroud of Turin is the authentic burial cloth of Christ. By no means an unfounded belief.

Aliyah Bunton presenting on the Shroud of Turin

Aliyah’s Presentation

Aliyah’s presentation was notable for her scholarship pertaining to the current research on the shroud. She referenced STURP (the Shroud of Turin Research Project) noting several key findings from recent studies. She tied in the modern research with several biblical accounts (such as Mt 27:59) that reference the shroud or provide relevant evidence. Her conclusion? The shroud of Turin is really the shroud that covered Jesus in the tomb.

Mr. Malatestinic has been pleased with the students presentations noting “It has been great to see how [presenting on the Shroud] has impacted the faith of the students, seeing how science and faith are not separated but better together.”