We agree.
but I have no love or respect for the shroud, and I wince when people cling to it as some kind of proof of Jesus' existence.
I'm interested in it as a testable archaeological artifact. I don't forclose the possibility that it could be THE shroud. If it happens to be the actual shroud, and proves itself to be so, then that could be pretty neat. As an accomplished scientist, I will look at it from this perspective as well. No one can positively say one way or the other right now, though even I must honestly admit that at this time the evidence appears to be building for it rather than detracting from it.
It challenges my faith in no way at all, however it proves to be. If I were you, I wouldn't let it challenge your faith either.
Just don't refuse to believe it out of hand, simply because of how some people may look at it or how you feel they have become inappropriately attached to it. If it strengthens their faith, so what? Who are you or I to say otherwise or judge their faith? Don't fear that there actually may be a true testable artifact from the crucufixion of Christ, just to fear it. That is actually more "tin-foil" hat-ed than you may realize.
Who knows...they might even locate the Holy Grail some day too. Keep an open mind and remain intellectually honest.