Keep your eyes open!...

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December 31, 1999

(Mat 24:6-8) You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.

ONE-THIRD OF NATIONS EMBROILED IN CONFLICT

(AP) -- The century is coming to a close with one-third of the world's 193 nations embroiled in conflict, nearly twice the Cold War level, a group that keeps track of battle zones reported on Wednesday.

In its annual report, the National Defense Council Foundation cited rising military coups and a backlash against democracy, a trend it suggested could continue for several years. The foundation listed 65 conflicts in 1999, up from 60 the year before.

"It's going to be a very tough next 20 years," retired Army Maj. Andy Messing Jr., the foundation's executive director, said in an interview. He said the growing proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and an increasing world population add to the danger.

FLOOD AND FIRE- An excellent Catholic review article discussing signs of the end times.

VATICAN CLEARS WAY FOR CANONIZATION

(AP) - The Vatican has cleared the way for the canonization of Sister Faustina Kowalska, patron of the National Shrine of Divine Mercy.

The healing of a Baltimore priest in 1995 was recognized by the Vatican as the second miracle credited to Sister Faustina. The first was the healing of a Stockbridge woman in 1981. The church requires that two incidents be certified as miracles before a person is elevated to sainthood.

``It's a historic day for us, because it lends even more credibility to the shrine's message of mercy,' said Patrick Novecosky, director of public relations for the Congregation of Marians.

The order opened the shrine in 1960, dedicating it to Sister Faustina, who died in Poland in 1938. An outdoor Mass in early spring annually attracts thousands to the town.

The Vatican is expected to announce the date of the canonization next month, Novecosky said. Ceremonies would be at the Vatican.

Related: http://www.divinemercy.org/

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

18. These types of watchfulness, my child, act like doorkeepers and bar entry to evil thoughts. Elsewhere, if God gives me words, I shall deal more fully with a further type whcih, along with the others, is also effective: this is to fix one's gaze on heaven and to pay no attention to anything material.

December 30, 1999

(Rev 18:2-5) With a mighty voice he shouted: "Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great! She has become a home for demons and a haunt for every evil spirit, a haunt for every unclean and detestable bird.For all the nations have drunk the maddening wine of her adulteries. The kings of the earth committed adultery with her, and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries." Then I heard another voice from heaven say: "Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues;for her sins are piled up to heaven, and God has remembered her crimes.

WORLD STOCK MARKETS SAY THEY'RE ON TRACK FOR Y2K

(AP) _ With prices soaring on so many of the world's big stock markets, it seems a good bet investors will be more worried about which champagne to uncork Friday night than any computer glitches spoiling the party next week.

Despite widespread concerns that the new year could ring in with scores of high-tech hiccups brought on by the millennium bug, executives at major exchanges say they're ready to go, with all systems fully prepared for trading to resume in 2000.

They see no reason to interrupt any festivities _ or recent rallies that have pushed blue chips to records in markets including New York, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Hong Kong and Singapore.

"We are quite well prepared and we should have no problems experiencing any market volatility," said Alec Tsui, chief executive of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

But just in case the experts have called things wrong, markets have contingency plans in place. They range from an "emergency war room" in Sao Paulo, Brazil _ which could keep traders in business if brokerages lose their electricity _ to an arrangement for Paris investors to deliver buy and sell orders by courier if necessary.

(Luke 12:29-34) And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

COUPLE HAS TAKEN CARE OF 97 KIDS

(AP) - James and Frances McManus are at an age where they could be traveling around the country, walking the malls or just kicking back and taking it easy. Instead, they are diapering infants, helping with homework and filling Christmas wish lists.

The McManuses - James, 70, and Frances, 69 - have been foster parents for nearly 20 years and have cared for 97 children.

Their latest foster child is a 3-month-old boy. They also have adopted two of their charges, 3-year-old Tiona and 10-year-old Jasmine. And they have five grown children of their own and 14 grandchildren.

The McManuses say they are foster parents for a simple reason - they love kids, especially babies, and they want to help.``It gives you a sense maybe you're helping, making a difference,'' McManus said. ``It's let us realize how thankful we are to have what we have. God has given it to us.''

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

17. A fourth type is to always have the thought of death in one's mind.

December 28-29, 1999

(Gal 5:19 -21) The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

'TOUGH GUY CHRIST' CONTEST IS ATTACKED BY CHURCH

An international endurance competition in which several thousand contestants will carry heavy wooden crosses to "commemorate" Christ's crucifixion has been attacked as "exploitative and " by Church leaders.

To the dismay of many Christians, the 15th annual "Tough Guy" competition, which will take place near Wolverhampton next month, has been billed by its organisers as the "Year of the Jesus Warriors". Up to 7,000 men and women from throughout Europe are expected to take part in the contest, which is designed to test strength and stamina.

Many will carry or drag crosses, weighing 40lb to 50lb each, for 2,000 yards over a gruelling course as one of a number of feats of endurance. Some will be dressed as Jesus. Leaflets promoting the event include pictures of Jesus bearing the cross to Calvary.

But Mgr Kieran Conry, the spokesman for the Roman Catholic Church, said the theme of the competition was a gimmick which distorted the Christian message. He said: "It is exploiting and trivialising the Christian story. They are associating Christ with ideas of masculinity and aggression, when He was far from the ultimate 'tough guy'. He never resisted arrest or tried to defend Himself during His trial."

(Psa 83:14-16) As fire consumes the forest or a flame sets the mountains ablaze, so pursue them with your tempest and terrify them with your storm. Cover their faces with shame so that men will seek your name, O LORD.

STORM-RAVAGED EUROPE STRUGGLES TO ITS FEET

(Reuters) - Western Europe struggled to clear roads and railways and repair power lines on Monday after violent storms over the Christmas weekend killed more than 70 people.

Stranded train and plane passengers resumed their journey and clean-up squads removed fallen trees and chimney rubble in northern and eastern France, where at least 33 were reported dead. Nearly a million homes were still without electricity.

While the French were still recovering from Sunday's havoc, a fresh storm with gusts of up to 123 mph began tearing through France's southwest late on Monday, killing eight people, emergency workers said.

Flood warnings issued for southern UK rivers
Storm damages France's premier monuments
Dozens dead after Thai cold spell

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

15. A second type of watchfulness consists in freeing the heart from all thoughts, keeping it profoundly silent and still, and in praying.

16. A third type consists in continually and humbly calling upon the Lord Jesus Christ for help.

December 27, 1999

(Lev 19:19) "'Keep my decrees. "'Do not mate different kinds of animals. "'Do not plant your field with two kinds of seed. "'Do not wear clothing woven of two kinds of material.

JELLYFISH DNA TRANSFERRED TO MONKEY EMBRYO

(AP) -- Moving medicine a big step closer to the day when healthier humans can be engineered in the laboratory, scientists have successfully transferred glowing green jellyfish DNA to monkey embryos.

Researchers previously did something similar with green jellyfish DNA and mice. In this latest experiment, scientists at the Oregon Regional Primate Research Center used rhesus monkey embryos instead, and produced a healthy, normal-looking monkey.

"When you get to a nonhuman primate, like a monkey, you're getting much closer to people," said Gerald Schatten, a cell biologist and professor of obstetrics at Oregon Health Sciences University who led the research. The university is a partner in the primate research center.

The scientists employed a technique adapted from fertility clinics, in which a tiny needle is used to insert sperm into an egg. In this case, the scientists first combined jellyfish DNA with monkey sperm, and injected the sperm into a monkey egg.

Researchers said the experiment represents a big step toward the day when genes can be inserted into human embryos to correct or prevent diseases. As a result, the experiment has raised ethical concerns.

ZEBRAFISH MAY BE TOXIN DETECTORS

(AP) - Glowing zebrafish could be used to identify pollutants in drinking water supplies if a research project under way at the University of Cincinnati proves successful.

The glow comes from firefly genes inserted into the DNA of zebrafish. The fish light up when exposed to PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls, which are known to cause cancer in humans.

``These fish are much more sensitive than current water testing systems that can detect concentrations of PCBs,'' said Dr. Daniel Nebert, a professor in the university's Department of Environmental Health and in the human genetics division of its Department of Pediatrics.

Using the zebrafish would cost less and take less time than testing the water with equipment or taking samples of mud or fish that then would have to be tested, he said.

The zebrafish are not harmed and eventually lose the glow when removed from the polluted area, Nebert said. And, he added, ``They can be detoxed and used again.''

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

14. One type of watchfulness consists in closely scrutinizing every mental image or provocation; for only by means of a mental image can Satan fabricate an evil thought and insinuate this into the intellect in order to lead it astray.

December 26, 1999

SOME BELEVERS WAITING FOR APOCALYPE

(AP) -- As frenzied revelers flock to Pacific islands or Times Square on New Year's Eve, certain religious believers will be contemplating the end of the world. But experts on millenarian religion say they know of no sects that expect the apocalypse to actually occur in coming days.

Faiths that formerly talked that way are hedging. For example, the dwindling Chen-Tao, or "True Way," sect of Lockport, New York, forecast nuclear catastrophe and rescue by heavenly spaceships at the end of 1999. Now, spokesman Richard Liu says the 30 members believe the end will come "in the next year. We have no specific date."

Some authorities had speculated that the close of the millennium might produce end-times eruptions. However, during panels on millennialism at a recent convention of the American Academy of Religion, an association for scholars in various religious fields, they shared no such expectations.

Boston University's Landes and Richard Abanes, author of "End-Time Visions," note upcoming dates that could have more apocalyptic potential than January 1:

-- May 2000: The late Edgar Cayce, a prominent New Age psychic, forecast that earth's axis would shift in 2000 or 2001, causing massive destruction. Some expect this on May 5 (5-5-2000) or May 17, when the moon, sun, and five planets will be in close alignment for the first time since 1962.

-- 2007: Some Bible prophecy buffs consider this year a candidate because it concludes the generation (40 years) after Jews reunified Jerusalem.

-- 2012: Other New Agers think the earth will be destroyed just before Christmas because the ancient Mayan calendar will run out of dates. (Historians say it won't.)

-- 2033: This is a big one for some Christians: the estimated 2000th anniversary of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

-- Beyond that lie 2076, which is 1500 in the Muslim calendar and could energize Sufi mystics and New Agers, and 2240, the start of humanity's seventh millennium by traditional Jewish reckoning.

Christianity teaches that Jesus will literally come again to reign. But most churches have followed theologians like St. Augustine, spurning literal interpretations of Revelation and discouraging apocalyptic speculations. Nonetheless, end-times thinking has continually captured the popular imagination.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

13. I shall now tell you in plain, straightforward language what I consider to be the types of watchfulness which gradually cleanse the intellect from impassioned thoughts. In these times of spiritual warfare I have no wish to conceal beneath words whatever in this treatise may be of use, especially to more simple people. As St. Paul puts it: 'Pay attention, my child Timothy, to what you read' (cf. 1 Tim. 4:13).

December 25, 1999

Merry Christmas!!!

(Rev 3:20 -22) Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

POPE OPENS HOLY YEAR FESTIVITIES

(AP) - Faltering at times, a frail Pope John Paul II walked through the bronze Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica on Christmas Eve, leading his church into Christianity's third millennium and fulfilling a dream of his papacy.

The opening of the Church's millennium celebrations, which end on January 6, 2001, marked a personal milestone for the Polish pontiff, now in the 21st year of his historic papacy. He has set himself a goal of leading his Church of a billion members into Christianity's third millennium -- despite his ailing health.

"Look with kindness, O Lord, on us, who in this night that is resplendent with light, solemnly open the Holy Door and happily start the year of the Great Jubilee," the pope, wearing a resplendent, multi-colored cape, said in prayers during the ceremony.

"May it be a year that pleases you, a year of grace and true freedom, of reconciliation and peace."

In his homily during the traditional midnight Mass that followed the ceremony, John Paul called the birth of Jesus Christ ''the truth which on this night the church wants to pass on to the third millennium.''

''And may all of you who will come after us accept this truth, which has totally changed history,'' John Paul said, speaking in a clear voice.

He said Christ is the ''true door, symbolized by the door which on this night we have solemnly opened.''

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

12. Through His incarnation God gave us the model for a holy life and recalled us from our ancient fall. In addition to many other things, He taught us, feeble as we are, that we should fight against the demons with humility, fasting, prayer and watchfulness. For when, after His baptism, He went into the desert and the devil came up to Him as though He were merely a man, He began His spiritual warfare by fasting and won the battle by this means- though, being God, and God of gods, He had no need of any such means at all.

December 24, 1999

CHRISTMAS FULL MOON TRANSFIXES BETHLEHEM

(Reuters) - Gloria Kendall is adamant she saw the Star of Bethlehem. It was, in fact, the moon.

In a rare astronomical event overnight, the paths of the earth and moon combined to make a full moon seem larger and brighter than usual.

"It appeared in the east with a shimmering halo around it, close to Christmas Eve, and I intend to tell my grandchildren about it someday," said Kendall, 28, from New York.

Astronomers agreed on Thursday it was a stunning display and it clearly thrilled pilgrims in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus.

But it was not the biblical Star of the East which has gripped imaginations and has remained a mystery for 2000 years.

Y2K/MILLENNIAL HEADLINES

NY's Giuliani going underground for New Year's Eve
U.S. State Department issues new global travel advisory
White House counsels vigilance as millennium nears
Red alert for millennium
UK faces millennium drugs explosion
Y2K concerns close Uzbekistan airports at New Year
Nuclear war fear over Y2K bug

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

11. It is written: 'Not everyone who says to Me: "Lord, Lord" shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of My Father' (Matt. 7:21). The will of the Father is indicated in the words: 'You who love the Lord, hate evil' (Ps. 97:10). Hence we should both pray the Prayer of Jesus Christ and hate our evil thoughts. In this way we do God's will.

December 23, 1999

JUBILEE, TIME FOR EVANGELIZATION, RECONCILIATION AND CELEBRATION!

(NE) "This Christmas will be truly unique as together we observe the two thousandth anniversary of Christ's Birth in Bethlehem and begin to celebrate the Year of the Great Jubilee", wrote Bishop Paul S. Loverde of Arlington. Addressing faithful in his Christmas message published in the Catholic Herald's latest issue, the Prelate highlighted Pope John Paul II' special insistence to not forget the general theme of this Holy Year: "Open Wide the Doors to Christ: Evangelize, Reconcile and Celebrate!"

"May we allow His Presence to permeate us so completely that the witness of our lives will make clear the Good News of His love and foster reconciliation and unity", encouraged as well Arlington's Bishop. "May Christmas 1999 be for everyone a feast filled with light, the prelude to an especially deep experience of grace and divine mercy".

BETHLEHEM CHRISTMAS MASS TO BE BROADCAST ON WEB

(Reuters) - Christians around the world can join in celebrations marking the birth of Jesus Christ 2,000 years ago by tuning in to a website set up by an Israeli firm to broadcast Bethlehem's millennium mass.

Israel's GEO Interactive Media Group Ltd said in a statement on Wednesday it would broadcast the Christmas Eve mass from Bethlehem on a specially created website on the Internet, http://www.holycandle.org/.

Michel Sabbah, Jerusalem's Latin patriarch, will lead the special mass celebrating 2000 years since the birth of Jesus at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.

VIA EMAIL [email protected]:

I am a novelist of Inspirational/Spiritual books, and one of my greatest challenges that God has given me was to find the holiest place on earth. So I have searched the world through my characters ... Rome? Fatima? Jerusalem? Where is it? I had to find it.

And then one day, I had an Epiphany... And I knew where the place was. Only it wasn't a place at all. It was a moment in time. The one we are in.

That's where Jesus is.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

10. Much water makes up the sea. But extreme watchfulness and the Prayer of Jesus Christ, undistracted by thoughts, are the necessary basis for inner vigilance and unfathomable stillness of soul, for the deeps of secret and singular contemplation, for the humility that knows and assesses, for rectitude and love. This watchfulness and this Prayer must be intense, concentrated and unremitting.

December 22, 1999

(Rom 1:25) They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator--who is forever praised. Amen.

SOLAR MILLENNIUM DAWNS IN IRELAND

(AP) - While much of the world waits for Jan. 1, sun worshippers celebrated the dawn of a new solar millennium today when winter solstice rays pierced the stone heart of Ireland's most ancient monument.

On an icy but clear Irish dawn, a few dozen people who had been on a 10-year waiting list witnessed the first golden flash of sunrise as it shone into Newgrange, a neolithic burial chamber northwest of Dublin.

Pagan engineers constructed the massive stone dome more than 5,000 years ago, several hundred years before the first pyramids in Egypt or the Stonehenge circle in England. They placed its single narrow entrance precisely at the point where it could capture the first flash of sunrise on the shortest day of the year.

And while some purists complained that this year's winter solstice technically occurs Wednesday, people watched live on Irish television and worldwide via the Internet as cameras inside the central chamber of the tomb captured the moment traditionally marked in Ireland every Dec. 21.

``It's one of those rarest of moments when the past, present and future seem to come perfectly together. And what a glorious clear morning,'' said Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, who walked inside the tomb minutes before its total darkness gave way to a blinding shaft of light.

ISLAMIC EXTREMISTS THREATEN CHRISTIANS IN NAZARETH

(FIDES/CWNews.com) – In the town of Nazareth, fundamentalist Muslims have stepped up pressure to intimidate Christians in the wake of an Israeli government decision allowing the construction of a mosque adjacent to the Basilica of the Annunciation. Now a leaflet is being circulated, threatening the life of Pope John Paul II.

The FIDES news agency reports that the leaflet-- which is written in Arabic, and unsigned-- features harsh anti-Catholic slogans and threatens violence if the Pope "dares to make the 2000 visit." The leaflet announces that all of the religious sites of the Holy Land are rightfully the property of Islam, and "the cross must disappear, and Islam take its place."

MOSLEMS DESTROY 14 CHURCHES IN CENTRAL NIGERIA
U.S. AIRPORTS STEP UP SECURITY IN FACE OF TERRORIST CONCERNS
ARREST AT BORDER STIRS WORRY FOR SEATTLE CELEBRATION

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

9. If you are an adept, initiated into the mysteries and standing before God at dawn (cf. Ps. 5:3), you will divine the meaning of my words. Otherwise be watchful and you will discover it.

December 21, 1999

JOHN PAUL II CALLS FOR SIMPLE AND SOBER CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS

(ZENIT).- In today's Angelus address, Pope John Paul stressed that the external trappings of Christmas should not distract us from the feast's deeper meaning.

The Pontiff explained that there is nothing negative in the glitz, lights, fireworks, etc., in themselves, but it is important not to forget the essential: what we are celebrating -- or, rather, Whom we are celebrating.

"The lights on the streets remind us of one aspect of this Feast, the most external, which although not negative in itself, nevertheless risks turning us away from the true spirit of Christmas. If, indeed, with good reason Christmas has become the feast of gifts, it is because it celebrates the gift par excellence that God has made to humanity in the person of Jesus. Thus, this must be lived in harmony with the meaning of the event, in a simple and sober manner," the Holy Father explained.

In order to make this Jubilee Christmas unique, the Pope proposed that time be given to prayer, an examination of conscience that will prepare the spirit to receive God's forgiveness in the sacrament of Reconciliation, and with charitable acts toward one's neighbor, especially the neediest.

John Paul II explained that Christmas is not simply the remembrance of the Event that took place 2000 years ago when, according to the Gospel, the power of God took on the frailty of a baby. It is really about a living reality that is repeated every year in the heart of believers. "The mystery of the Holy Night, which historically happened two thousand years ago, must be lived as a spiritual event in the 'today' of the Liturgy," the Pope clarified. "The Word who found a dwelling in Mary's womb comes to knock on the heart of every person with singular intensity this Christmas."

LAST LUNAR HURRAH OF THE MILLENNIUM

This year the full moon will occur on the winter solstice, Dec. 22, commonly called the first day of winter. The full moon on the winter solstice will occur in conjunction with a lunar perigee (point in the moon's orbit that is closest to Earth). The moon will appear about 14% larger than it does at apogee (the point in it's elliptical orbit that is farthest from the Earth). Because the Earth is also several million miles closer to the sun at this time of the year than in the summer, sunlight striking the moon is about 7% stronger, also making it brighter. Finally, this will be the closest perigee of the Moon of the year since the moon's orbit is constantly deforming. If the weather is clear and there is a snow cover where you live, it is believed that even car headlights will be superfluous.

On December 21st 1866 the Lakota Sioux took advantage of this combination of occurrences and staged a devastating retaliatory ambush on soldiers in the Wyoming Territory. In laymen's terms it will be a super bright full moon, much more than the usual AND it hasn't happened this way for 133 years! Our ancestor's 133 years ago saw this. Our descendants 100 or so years from now will see this again.

LINK TO NASA ARTICLE: A WHALE OF A FULL MOON

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

8. When the mind, taking refuge in Christ and calling upon Him, stands firm and repels its unseen enemies, like a wild beast facing a pack of hounds from a good position of defence, then it inwardly anticipates their inner ambuscades well in advance. Through continually invoking Jesus the peacemaker against them, it remains invulnerable.

December 20, 1999

POPE SETS MARCH 21-26 FOR HOLY LAND VISIT

A Vatican delegation was in Israel last week to prepare for the visit, which would be the first by a Pope to the Holy Land since 1964, Israel's Government Press Office said.

"The Pastoral visit will take place in Israel from 21-26 March 2000," the statement said.

An Israeli official said that on one of the days during his pilgrimage, the Pope would visit Jesus's birthplace in Bethlehem under Palestinian Authority rule. The Israeli statement said the Pope would go to holy sites and meet state and religious leaders.

ISRAEL ON CHRISTIAN MILLENIUM WATCH AT HOLY SITE

(Reuters) - Israel is tightening security around Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site to try to prevent violence by messianic Christians arriving for the end of the millennium, police said on Sunday.

Commander Yair Yitzhaki told Israel's Army Radio that police were on the lookout for Christian troublemakers heading for the Holy City's Temple Mount, site of the biblical Jewish Temples, as the millennium countdown begins.

"The greatest fear is the act of a militant individual or small group: In this case we are talking about Christians, though there is a potential among other religious groups," Yitzhaki said.

BERGER URGES CAUTION OVER HOLIDAYS

(AP) - President Clinton's national security adviser urged Americans to be ``vigilant'' against potential terrorist attacks at home and abroad over the holidays.

``We're not aware of any other specific threat against particular targets in the United States,'' Berger said on CBS' ``Face the Nation.'' ``Obviously, if that changes we'll alert the American people.''

Nevertheless, Berger asked listeners to report suspicious packages or activities to the police and to take extra care when traveling abroad during the New Year period. The State Department previously issued a terrorism alert for U.S. travelers.

``This is a period of heightened risk of terrorist actions involving Americans,'' Berger said. ``I would say Americans should be vigilant as they go about their plans for the New Years.''

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

7. (cont.) Continuity of attention produces inner stability; inner stability produces produces a natural intensification of watchfulness; and this intensification gradually and in due measure gives contemplative insight into spiritual warfare. This in its turn is succeeded by persistence in the Jesus Prayer and by the state that Jesus confers, in which the intellect, free from all images, enjoys complete quietude.

December 19, 1999

OUR LADY OF EMMITSBURG MESSAGE

Through Gianna Talone Sullivan (Bishop's Statement)
at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Emmitsburg, MD December 16, 1999

My dear little children, praise be Jesus!

      Ponder, little ones, how your Savior entered into the world born
of your Immaculate Mother. I the handmaid of the Lord your God was
betrothed to Joseph who was a just man of the house of David. As I was
gathering water from the town well, a brilliant light from heaven
approached me. Startled by this light I made in haste my way home.

Once in my humble quarters there again a brilliant light from heaven
entered my quarters and from this light came the melodious voice of an
angel who announced "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you! Fear
not. You have found grace before God. You will bear a son. He will be
great and will be the son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him
the throne of his father David and he will reign over the house of Jacob
forever and His Kingdom will have no end."

      My little children, God in His love instructed my soul and spoke
to me in the middle of the silence and darkness of the world. There I
surrendered in the trust and poverty of a child. I did not know the land
I would travel or the route. I had only one desire, that of reaching
the summit of love. My Joseph and I were led by God through passages
where we saw nothing but a half- veiled light, but that light was God
Himself advancing us toward His mountain of love.

      You also, children, are invited to walk the passage of love seen
though it may be veiled with silence and little consolation. Surrender
in hope and watch. Your Jesus will turn your sorrow and darkness into
joy, and a luminous light will dawn a new tomorrow. Wait in
anticipation and adore Him. Walk where He leads you with the trust and
poverty of a child. The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of
the Most High will overshadow you!

      The Holy child to be born will be called Son of God! He is YOUR
God, children, He is YOUR Jesus, YOUR Savior, and nothing will be
impossible for He is God. Reach out to Him. Say "yes" to His will and
entrust your lives to Him. He will lead you through the darkness into
the light, through the cold and wind to warmth and to a safe harbor, a
destiny filled with love. There is hope for you, little children, there
is hope.

     Peace to you. I take your petitions to My Beloved Son, your
Savior. Thank you for responding to My Call. AD DEUM.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

7. In one who is attempting to dam up the source of evil thoughts and actions, continuity of watchful attention in the intellect is produced by fear of hell and fear of God, by God's withdrawals from the soul, and by the advent of trials which chasten and instruct. For these withdrawals and unexpected trials help us to correct our life, especially when, having once experienced the tranquillity of watchfulness, we neglect it.

December 18, 1999

(Mat 5:14-16) "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

POPE SAYS: LET THERE BE LIGHT

(Reuters) - Pope John Paul presided over a ceremony Friday inaugurating a new system that will illuminate the newly-restored St Peter's Basilica, the largest church in Christendom, for the Holy Year in 2000.

"May this light, which shines on the basilica and shows its splendor, be an invitation to pilgrims to receive Christ into their lives, since Christ is the light of the world," he said.

HAMAS WARNS ISRAEL, U.S. THAT HOLY STRUGGLE WILL CONTINUE

(Reuters) - The militant Islamic group Hamas staged a show of strength in Gaza Friday, putting Israel and its main ally Washington on notice it would battle what it called a savage, U.S.-backed Israeli war against Palestinians.

Hamas activists dressed in traditional Islamic war uniform surrounded the wheelchair-bound Hamas founder Sheikh Ahmed Yassin as he spoke to some 20,000 supporters at a rally marking the group's 1987 founding. "It is a savage war against the Palestinian people led by America. We say to the United States: we will fight, we will continue our jihad (holy war or struggle), and let the march of martyrs go on."

SUSPECT CARRYING NITROGLYCERIN MAY BE LINKED TO BIN LADEN
U.S. CLOSES EMBASSY AND CONSULATE IN ECUADOR DUE TO 'SECURITY THREATS'

MUSLIMS URGED ON CLAIM TO JERUSALEM

(AP) - The top Muslim cleric in Jerusalem today told an overflow crowd of 400,000 worshippers at the Al Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third holiest shrine, that the Palestinians cannot give up their claims to the disputed city.

Relinquishing religious claims would mean ``giving up in the future Mecca and Medina,'' the first and second holiest shrines of Islam, said Ikrema Sabri, the mufti of Jerusalem, an appointee of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

The Palestinians seek to establish a capital in east Jerusalem, which Israel captured from Jordan in the 1967 Mideast war. Israel seeks to maintain sovereignty over all of the city.

Sabri spoke on the second Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan, a time of religious renewal for many Muslims. Muslim officials said about 400,000 worshippers attended, a crowd so large that many spread their prayer carpets on the cobblestone streets outside the walled compound.

(Zec 12:2-3) "I am going to make Jerusalem a cup that sends all the surrounding peoples reeling. Judah will be besieged as well as Jerusalem. On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

6. Watchfulness is a continual fixing and halting of thought at the entrance to the heart. In this way predatory and murderous thoughts are marked down as they approach and what they say and do is noted; and we can see in what specious and delusive form the demons are trying to deceive the intellect. If we are conscientious in this, we can gain much expereince and knowledge of spiritual warfare.

December 17, 1999

RECORD-STRENGTH CYCLONE LASHES AUSTRALIAN COAST

(CNN) -- The most powerful cyclone ever recorded in Australia ravaged its northwestern coast Wednesday, forcing hundreds of evacuations and damaging homes before losing strength later in the day. There were no reports of deaths or injuries.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Bryan Boase said it was "unequivocally" the strongest cyclone to hit Australia since the government began keeping records. "We're looking at winds of almost 300 kilometers (185 miles) an hour and quite frankly, that's bloody unbelievable," he said.

AT LEAST TWO DEAD AS RAIN, FLOODS HIT ITALY
VENEZUELAN FLOODS CALLED NATION'S WORST DISASTER IN 50 YEARS
JERUSALEM CHAPEL FLOOD DESTROYS PRICELESS ICON

SCIENTISTS RELEASE FIRST GLOBAL EARTHQUAKE HAZARD MAP

AP) -- Much of the world's population lives on potentially shaky ground, scientists said Tuesday after releasing the first map detailing the entire planet's earthquake hazard zones.

The ominously colorful document offers few surprises: Southern California, southeastern Hawaii, Turkey, Taiwan, Iceland and the India-China border are most likely to experience strong shaking in the future, researchers said.

URL FOR MAP: http://www.cnn.com/1999/NATURE/12/15/seismichazards.ap/seismic.map.jpg

OTHER SCIENCE NEWS:

SCIENTISTS DECODE PLANT CHROMOSOMES
HOUSECAT GIVES BIRTH TO RARE WILDCAT KITTEN
MAN IS NOT ALONE- THERE MAY BE BACTERIA OUT THERE
PLANET MAY BE REFLECTING STARLIGHT
RARE SOLAR WIND SILENCE OPENS WINDOW INTO SUN

CONSTRUCTION RUBBLE FROM AL-AQSA COMPOUND FULL OF HISTORY

(AP) _ A huge gray mound of dirt by the local garbage dump in the Kidron Valley looks like any other pile of construction refuse, but with one major difference: it is full of history.

The dirt was carted away by Muslim caretakers from the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a site holy to both Jews and Muslims and one of the most sensitive spots in contested east Jerusalem.

Jerusalem district archaeologist Jon Seligman says that thousands of tons of earth and rubble dumped from the compound over the last few days are in fact rich with Islamic heritage. "It is a big loss for the archaeological community, and it doesn't matter which side of the political fence you are on," he said.

Dan Bahat, a former chief archaeologist in Jerusalem, who also searched the rubble, said he even found some shards dating back to the time of the first and second Jewish Temples, the 10th century B.C. and 1st century A.D., respectively.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

5. Attentiveness is the heart's stillness, unbroken by any thought. In this stillness the heart breathes and invokes, endlessly and without ceasing, only Jesus Christ who is the Son of God and Himself God. It confesses Him who alone has power to forgive our sins, and with His aid it courageously faces its enemies. Through this invocation enfoded continually in Christ, who secretly divines all hearts, the soul does everything it can to keep its sweetness and its inner struggle hidden from men, so that the devil, coming upon it surreptitiously, does not lead it into evil and destroy its precious work.

December 16, 1999

(2 Tim 3:1-4) But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--

POPE RUES "LOSS OF A SENSE OF GOD"

Speaking to about 8,000 people in the Paul VI auditorium, the Holy Father said that the loss of a sense of God has grown in conjunction with "a nihilistic culture which relativizes fundamental values such as those of the family and of respect for life."

Because of the effects of "ideologies which have stripped so many of our brothers of their spiritual reference-points," the Pope continued, the "vague religiosity" which is so widespread in the Western world today is not enough to establish a firm moral base. He said that Christians must help society to understand the "the causes of this loss of the sense of God," and engage in the "new evangelization" to bring new life to concrete religious faith. This, he said, is "the fascinating challenge" for Christians today, who are charged with building a new "civilization of love."

(Lev 25:10) Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you; each one of you is to return to his family property and each to his own clan.

FIRST MOMENT OF GREAT JUBILEE OF THE YEAR 2000

On Christmas Eve, 1999, John Paul II will slowly climb up the steps leading to the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica. He will bang the door-knocker with his hand (without using the hammer as on other occasions) and then open both sides of the door. At this moment, the Vatican Basilica will be ablaze with light, and the Holy Father will kneel in silent prayer on the Door's threshold for a few moments.

This gesture is symbolic, explained Bishop Piero Marini, "of the step that every Christian must take from sin to grace... The Pope will be the first to cross the Holy Door with this spirit on Christmas Eve. After crossing the threshold, he will show the Holy Gospel to the Church and the world, as the source of life and hope for the third millennium."

SACRED AND PROFANE MARK ROME MILLENIUM

(Reuters) - In Rome, the millennium will end with both a whisper and a bang. Perhaps in no other city at midnight Dec. 31 will there be such a mix of prayer and partying, sacred and profane.

A whisper of gratitude will come from Pope John Paul II in his "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) blessing from the window of his apartment overlooking St. Peter's Square.

It will be a highly emotional moment for the 79-year-old pontiff. Age and frailty have left their mark on the man who was once known as "God's Athlete" and who has set himself a personal target of crossing the millennium finish line.

All around the pope on New Year's Eve, the eternal city will not exactly be burning but it will be sizzling. A pop concert will be in full swing in the sprawling Piazza del Popolo including local stars such as Alex Britti, a winner of last year's San Remo song festival, and Luciano Ligabue.

Back up the River Tiber at the Vatican on New Year's Day, the pope, hopefully having managed a good night's sleep despite the religious revels below his window, will travel to the Rome Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. There, while other Romans nurse their hangovers, he will mark the Roman Catholic Church's World Day of Peace and invoke God's blessings on humanity's next 1,000 years.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

4. Just as a man blind from birth does not see the sun's light, so one who fails to pursue watchfulness does not see the rich radiance of divine grace. He cannot free himself from evil thoughts, words, and actions, and because of these thoughts and actions he will not be able freely to pass the lords of hell when he dies.

December 15, 1999

(1 Cor 6:14) The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also.

US TEENS HAVE HIGHEST ABORTION RATE

(CWNews.com) - A pro-abortion think tank said in a new study released on Tuesday that US teens have the highest abortion rate among First World nations.

The Alan Guttmacher Institute, a group affiliated with abortion provider Planned Parenthood, said the US teen birth rate is 13 times that of the Netherlands, the teen abortion rate is three times that of France, and US teens begin having sex earlier than their European peers. The institute predictably called on the US government to provide explicit sex education, contraceptives, and abortion to teens.

ONE IN 3 SCHOOLS SKIP TALK OF BIRTH CONTROL, PROMOTE SEXUAL ABSINTENCE

(AP) -- In one school out of three, American teen-agers are not just encouraged to abstain from sex, they are taught that abstinence is the only appropriate option, according to two surveys released Tuesday.

These "abstinence-only" policies teach students that they should wait until marriage, or at least until they are older, to have sex. The policies leave out any discussion of birth control to prevent pregnancy or transmission of HIV and other diseases -- except to talk about the shortcomings of such approaches.

Most other schools opt for "abstinence-plus" programs that discourage sex but suggest use of contraception for students who choose to have it anyway. Abstinence long has been promoted by conservative and religious groups who argue that talking about birth control sends teen-agers a mixed message, suggesting that premarital sex is really OK.

FRANCE UNVEILS RULES FOR SCHOOL PROVISION OF MORNING-AFTER PILL
MILLENNIUM SEX FEARS SPARK NEW TROJAN WAR
SCOTTISH CHURCHES UNITE AGAINST REPEAL OF HOMOSEXUAL EDUCATION BAN

(Gal 5:19-21) The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

3. Watchfulness is a way embracing every virtue, every commandment. It is the heart's stillness and, when free from mental images, it is the guarding of the intellect.

December 14, 1999

POPE BACKS INTERVENTION IN CASES OF CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY

(AP) _ Declaring human rights "have no borders," Pope John Paul II on Monday gave strong backing to international efforts to punish crimes against humanity.

"Crimes against humanity cannot be considered an internal affair of a nation," John Paul said in his annual message for the church's World Day of Peace on Jan. 1.

The pope said the world has been "sorely tried" in the 20th century by war and genocide and that humanity must abandon the idea that the claims of a nation take precedence over the common good.

He endorsed establishment of an International Criminal Court to try such crimes as "an important first step" in accepting the concept that human rights are "universal and indivisible."

DOZEN ARRESTED IN ALLEGED TERRORIST PLOT AGAINST CHRISTIAN TARGETS

(CNN) -- U.S. officials have revealed that about a dozen suspects were arrested by local authorities in the Middle East and accused of plotting to attack Christian targets in Jerusalem and elsewhere in the region over the Christmas and New Year's period.

U.S. WARNS TRAVELERS OF POSSIBLE TERRORIST ATTACKS

(CNN) -- The U.S. State Department on Saturday warned of possible terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens traveling abroad for the holidays.

The State Department issued a worldwide caution that said the government "had credible information that terrorists are planning attacks specifically targeting American citizens during the period of time leading up to and through the beginning of the New Year and Ramadan events and celebrations. The information indicates that attacks could be planned for locations throughout the world where large gatherings and celebrations will be taking place."

UPDATED JESUS IMAGE HAS DARK SKIN

AP) - A painting of a dark-skinned Jesus, by an artist who used a woman as a model, has been selected by a Catholic publication as the winner of its contest to update the image of Christ for the new millennium.

The painting, ``Jesus of the People,'' was selected from nearly 1,700 entries for the cover of a special millennium issue being published this week by the National Catholic Reporter, an independent newsweekly and one of the best-known Catholic publications in the country.

The painting shows a robed and haloed Jesus. Against a pale pink background are a yin-yang symbol, intended to represent perfect balance, and a feather, symbolizing the American Indian spirituality that McKenzie learned about during a stay in New Mexico.

The painting ``is a haunting image of a peasant Jesus - dark, thick-lipped, looking out on us with ineffable dignity, with sadness but with confidence,'' wrote Sister Wendy Beckett, the 69-year-old British nun and host of a public television series about art. She selected the winner and three runners-up.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

2. The great lawgiver Moses- or, rather, the Holy Spirit- indicates the pure, comprehensive and ennobling character of this virtue, and teaches us how to acquire and perfect it, when he says: 'Be attentive to yourself, lest there arise in your heart a secret thing which is an iniquity' (Deut. 15:9. LXX). Here the phrase 'a secret thing' refers to the first appearance of an evil thought. This the Fathers call a provocation introduced into the heart by the devil. As soon as this thought appears in our intellect, our own thoughts chase after it and enter into impassioned intercourse with it.

December 13, 1999

(Mat 28:19-20) Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH SANCTIFIED IN MOSCOW

(AP) A newly renovated Roman Catholic church building that had been closed down during the Soviet era was blessed Sunday by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the Vatican's Secretary of State.

The Immaculate Conception Church in Moscow was returned to the Catholic Church four years ago. The ceremony of sanctification was attended by the cardinals of Detroit, Mich., and Krakow, Poland, as well as 40 bishops and 100 priests.

CHRISITIANS RALLY IN MALAYSIA

(AP) - As a muezzin called for evening prayers from a nearby mosque, a fiery Argentine evangelist challenged the 50,000-strong crowd of Christians to repent and renew their faith in Jesus Christ.

``God is here right now,'' boomed Carlos Annacondia as he stood at the podium of the massive Bukit Jalil national stadium Saturday night. ``He is here to deliver you. Come forward to the feet of Jesus.''

While a swaying sea of Christians lifted their hands in prayer to commemorate the end of the millennium and to celebrate Christmas, hundreds of people streamed across the soccer field toward the stage. Dozens in wheelchairs clustered nearby for healing, while others wept.

OUR LORD'S MESSAGE THROUGH FR.JACK SPAULDING (Bishop's Statement) at
St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Phoenix, AZ December 9, 1999

My dear ones, I come to you this night, to remind you, that as I came to the world the first time as a tiny baby; I come to remind you, that I have come always for the little ones and so I ask you; My dear children, to truly be a child; to look at God as your Father, to trust Him and to put your whole life in His hands.

My dear ones, as little children you will enter into My Kingdom.

Know that I love you, and so again, I say, know that I love you. I have come to you and I will remain with you. Take My hand and I will lead you back to God, your Father and My Father.

Be simple, My dear ones, as a child.Know that you will find Me in the simplicity and stillness of your heart.Rest in Me, My dear ones, and do not be afraid.

I love you and I give you My blessing of peace and mercy this night.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

1. (cont.) Because this is its nature, watchfulness is to be bought only at a great price. But once established in us, it guides us to a true and holy way of life. It teaches us how to activate the three aspects of our soul correctly, and how to keep a firm guard over the senses. It promotes the daily growth of the four principal virtues, and is the basis of our contemplation.

December 12, 1999

HISPANICS CELEBRATE OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE WITH PROCESSION

(AP) Thousands of people journeyed through the streets on Saturday in a procession to honor the venerated Virgin of Guadalupe and display a replica of her image.

The celebration stems from a tradition that says an olive-skinned Virgin Mary appeared in Mexico to an Aztec Indian named Juan Diego in December 1531 and left her image behind on his cloak. Clerics credit the apparition with converting millions of polytheist Indians into Roman Catholics. Our Lady of Guadalupe is, for many, at the root of Mexico's national identity and its contemporary faith.

RETIRED ABBOT CASTS DOUBT ON MEXICO'S REVERED CATHOLIC FIGURE
EMOTIONAL POPE INAUGURATES RESTORED SISTINE CHAPEL

GAY BRITISH MEN BECOME PARENTS OF TWINS

(Reuters) - Two gay men who have become legal parents of surrogate twins born in California now face a battle to win British passports for their son and daughter.

Barrie Drewitt, 30, and Tony Barlow, 35, were present on Thursday evening when the twins were born to a surrogate mother in a California hospital, the Mail on Sunday reported.

The couple's American surrogate mother, Rosalind Bellamy, 32, gave birth to a boy, Aspen Drewitt-Barlow and his twin sister Saffron. Bellamy had been implanted with eggs fertilised in a laboratory by sperm from one of the men.

CLINTON SAYS GAYS IN MILITARY POLICY HASN'T WORKED

STRONG QUAKE ROCKS PHILIPPINES

(Reuters) - An earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.8, jolted the main Philippine island of Luzon, including the country's capital, Manila, early on Sunday and officials said one person died of heart attack and several were injured. A number of buildings in Manila suffered minor damage, including cracks and shattered glass panels, police said.

Sunday's quake occurred a day after Luzon was hit by a massive power blackout after a power plant tripped. The plant, located in a coastal town, malfunctioned after large quantities of jellyfish were sucked into its structure, causing obstructions to the system, officials said.

JELLYFISH CAUSES POWER OUTAGE IN PHILIPPINES

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

1. (cont.) Watchfulness enables us to fulfil every divine commandment in the Old and New Testaments and bestows upon us every blessing of the age to come. It is, in the true sense, purity of heart, a state blessed by Christ when He says: 'Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God' (Matt. 5:8); and one which, because of its spiritual nobility and beauty- or, rather, because of our negligence- is now extremely rare among monks.

December 11, 1999

ADVICE FROM A GODLY PRIEST

"Fear is useless!!!! There are a few more surprises left from the Lord!! He is very near to you and aware of your need. Look not at your weakness, look at how great your Mother is."

RUSSO-SINO SUMMIT MARKS ASCENDANCE OF CHINA

As China continues to position itself as a world power, the balance it walks between the United States and Russia will remain a key tool in its foreign policy. The summit in Beijing, and the two governments’ divergent portrayals of the event, has demonstrated the weakness of Russia’s international position. At the same time, China has shown itself to be the senior partner in any relationship with Russia, and, while maintaining an open relationship with the United States, remains capable of pulling the Russia card any time it sees fit.

CHINA LAUNCES STRONG PROTEST WITH U.S.OVER TAIWAN

(AP) _ China issued a "strong protest" against the United States on Friday, accusing President Clinton of "grossly interfering" in its affairs by supporting Taiwanese participation in the World Health Organization, state media said.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi protested "the U.S. government's acts of seriously infringing upon China's sovereignty and grossly interfering in China's internal affairs," Xinhua said. He demanded that Washington "correct its wrongdoing and never support Taiwan's entry into the WHO and other international bodies in which only a sovereign state can join," it said.

"If it does, it must be prepared for serious consequences," Yang added.

YELTSIN WARNS U.S. NOT TO MEDDLE IN CHECHNYA, CITES NUCLEAR WEAPONS

(CNN) -- Russian President Boris Yeltsin, noting Russia still possesses nuclear weapons, warned the United States on Thursday not to meddle in the Chechen conflict.

"(U.S. President Bill) Clinton allowed himself to pressurize Russia yesterday," Interfax news agency quoted Yeltsin as saying in reference to Clinton's tough remarks on Chechnya.

"He must have forgotten for a moment what Russia is," Yeltsin, visiting China just days after being released from hospital, added."It has a full arsenal of nuclear weapons."

RUSSIA DEPLOYS 10 MORE TOPOL-M NUCLEAR MISSILES

(AP) The Russian military deployed 10 new Topol-M nuclear missiles Friday, the second time in two years that it has put a contingent of the missiles on full combat readiness.

Russia's Strategic Missile Forces chief, Col.-Gen. Vladimir Yakovlev, said Yeltsin had been well aware of the Topol-M deployment when he made his remarks Thursday, the Interfax news agency said.

The Topol-M is relatively small and can be transported on a mobile launch pad, making it hard to locate and take out in the first strike of a nuclear confrontation.

(Mat 24:6) You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.

The Philokalia excerpt: St. Hesychios "On Watchfulness and Holiness"

1. Watchfulness is a spiritual method which, if sedulously practised over a long period, completely frees us with God's help from impassioned thoughts, impassioned words and evil actions. It leads, in so far as this is possible, to a sure knowledge of the inapprehensible God, and helps us to penetrate the divine and hidden mysteries.

December 10, 1999

SCIENTISTS MAP HUMAN CHROMOSOME

For the first time, scientists have mapped virtually an entire human chromosome, one of the chains of molecules that bear the genetic recipe for human life.

The achievement announced Wednesday (12/1) is an important step for the $3 billion Human Genome Project, which is attempting to detail the tens of thousands of genes that carry instructions for everything in a human - from brain function to hair color to foot size. A draft of the entire genome was expected to be done next spring, but the milestone announced Wednesday may hasten its completion.

``I think this is probably the most important scientific effort that mankind has ever mounted. That includes splitting the atom and going to the moon,'' said Francis Collins, who chairs the international project from the National Institutes of Health.

HEMOPHILIA TREATED SUCCESSFULLY WITH GENE THERAPY

(AP) A form of hemophilia which affects about 5,000 Americans has been treated successfully in three patients by injecting them with a gene producing a protein to help blood clot, researchers reported.

The research by Avigen Inc. is focused on hemophilia B. The gene producing Factor IX was delivered to patients in the study via a virus that can't reproduce and causes no known illness. Avigen is planning tests of a similar treatment for hemophilia A, the more common form of the disease affecting 20,000 people in the United States.

Patients in the study began producing Factor IX on their own about eight weeks after being injected last summer and have continued to produce the clotting factor for six months, said John Monahan, who heads Avigen.

PANEL STUDIES RULES ON GENE THERAPY

(AP) - The death of a young patient has sent a chill through the hot, new medical field of gene therapy, leading a federal panel to consider tougher controls for experiments that use genes to cure disease.

The death - the first caused directly by experimental gene therapy - has prompted a three-day advisory committee hearing that National Institutes of Health officials say may help reshape federal approval and supervision of gene therapy trials.

More than 350 gene therapy trials are under way, and, until recently, there have been no serious problems, although only modest success.

SINGLE-CELL RESEARCH COULD OPEN DOOR TO NEW LIFE FORM

CNN) -- Scientists are picking apart living organisms as small as a single cell in hopes of understanding exactly what genes are needed for the most basic life forms. The result could be the invention of new creatures designed to help, or hurt, humankind.

Research on the project has been taking place at the Institute for Genetic Research outside Washington. Scientists hoped that by identifying the purpose of each gene in single- cell bacteria, they will, by process of elimination, be able to determine which genes are essential for life.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

153. If when praying no other joy can attract you, then you have found prayer.

December 9, 1999

MOST MUSLIM STATES DECREE THURSDAY AS START OF RAMADAN

In Saudi Arabia, the home of Islam's holiest shrines in Mecca and Medina, the Supreme Legal Council said in a statement that Ramadan will begin Thursday. The council is the top religious body in the kingdom.

During Ramadan, observant Muslims around the world are forbidden to eat, drink, smoke or have sexual intercourse between sunrise and sunset.

The fast commemorates God's revelation of the Koran, Islam's holy book, to the Prophet Mohammed some 1,400 years ago. There are about 850 million Muslims around the world.

CLICK HERE FOR A RAMADAN RELATED PRAYER REQUEST FROM A CHRISTIAN MISSIONARY.

ISRAELI, SYRIAN LEADERS TO MEET FOR PEACE TALKS IN U.S.

(CNN) -- Israel and Syria will resume face-to-face peace talks next week in Washington, President Clinton announced Wednesday.

The breakthrough came after Secretary of State Madeleine Albright met with Syrian President Hafez Assad Tuesday in the Syrian capital of Damascus and then with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak in Jerusalem on Wednesday. Israel and Syria broke off peace talks in 1996.

"We are at a pivotal moment" in Middle East negotiations, Clinton said at a news conference. "History will not forgive a failure" to forge a lasting peace.

GOLAN HEIGHTS KEY TO ISRAEL-SYRIA TALKS
EGYPT MAY SHELVE MILLENNIUM PLAN TO CROWN PYRAMID

VIA EMAIL Jim Collins:

Click here for a photo that was given to me this week by a friend who has a personal picture of a statue of Mary which has a brilliant luminous heart.

As the description on the web page says, it is a "miracle" photo, for it shows Jesus with His eyes open. I have a poster copy that clearly shows that Our Lord's eyes are open.

It would appear, that God is sending "small proofs" to his faithful of the spiritual nature of our existence.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

152. So long as you give attention to the beauty of the body, and your intellect delights in the outside of the tabernacle, you have not yet perceived the realm of prayer and are still far from treading its blessed path.

December 8, 1999

(Isa 45:5-6) I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides me. I am the LORD, and there is no other.

MISSING MARS SPACECRAFT FOR SALE ON INTERNET

(Reuters) - The Mars Polar Lander may be lost in outer space -- but in cyberspace it is already sitting pretty and up for sale.

As beleaguered U.S. scientists made one last attempt on Tuesday to contact their wayward $165 million craft, cyberpranksters were putting it up for sale on the eBay Internet auction site for a fire sale price of $1 million.

"Authentic Mars Polar Lander: Actual Mars Polar Lander NASA has lost. Good condition, clean, sharp runs good," the eBay offering read. "About a billion miles on it still doing fine. Paint has faded somewhat do (due) to Mars atmosphere entry otherwise OK. Probably could buff out. Must pick up on Mars yourself! Final price must be agreed upon by NASA."

ULTRANATIONALIST JEWS BURN PALESTINIAN FLAGS, ASCEND TEMPLE MOUNT

(AP) _ Militant Jews burned Palestinian flags and ascended one of Islam's holiest mosques Tuesday to protest Prime Minister Ehud Barak's acquiescence to a new Muslim-built entrance there. The site, also known as Temple Mount, is holy to both Muslims and Jews.

Protesting the decision, several members of the Temple Mount Faithful group tore up and burned cardboard Palestinian flags in front of Palestinian headquarters in east Jerusalem. The demonstrators also stomped on a mock coffin with the word "Palestine" written on the side.

The Palestinian-controlled Islamic authority, or Waqf, oversees the compound, the third holiest site to Muslims. It is located on the site of the Jewish Temple that was last destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D.

(Rev 21:22-23) I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

151. The value of prayer lies not in mere quantity but in its quality. This is shown by the contrast of the two men who went up into the temple (cf. Luke 18:10), and by the injunction: 'When you pray, do not use vain repetitions' (Matt. 6:7).

December 7, 1999

(1 Ki 18:20-24) So Ahab sent word throughout all Israel and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. Elijah went before the people and said, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him." But the people said nothing. Then Elijah said to them, "I am the only one of the Lord's prophets left, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets. Get two bulls for us. Let them choose one for themselves, and let them cut it into pieces and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. I will prepare the other bull and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the LORD. The god who answers by fire--he is God." Then all the people said, "What you say is good."

(1 Ki 18:36-39) At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: "O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command.Answer me, O LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again." Then the fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, "The LORD--he is God! The LORD--he is God!"

NEW BLAZE RAGES ON MT. CARMEL

(HAIFA)- A huge forest fire was still raging out of control on the southern slopes of Mt. Carmel Sunday night, threatening communities on both sides of the road leading from Haifa to Zichron Ya'acov.

The fire broke out between Moshav Nir Etzion and Kerem Maharal late in the evening and quickly spread, fanned by fierce easterly winds. Interior Minister Natan Sharansky also went to the scene of what was described as one of the worst-ever fires in the region. Some wardens from the Nature Protection and National Parks Authority (NPNPA) even went so far as to term it a catastrophe.

BLEAK HOPES FOR A WET WINTER

(HAIFA) - A second consecutive winter drought, with all its dire ramifications for the farming industry, is looking increasingly likely. It is now expected that rainfall in the next three months will be significantly less than average, according to an updated forecast issued Sunday by the Israel Meteorological Service.

Some kibbutz members dramatized the situation by holding a floating prayer session on Lake Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) yesterday, filmed by local television crews.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

150. As sight is superior to all the other senses, so prayer is more divine than all the other virtues.

December 6, 1999

JOHN PAUL: PREPARE IN MIND AND BODY FOR UPCOMING HOLY YEAR

(AP) _ Pope John Paul II urged Italy on Sunday to get ready for the Holy Year just three weeks away, asking anyone who could to give blood so there would be an adequate supply for the year's expected 20 million pilgrims.

Spiritually, the pope said, there was work to do as well- repentance, so that Christians would have their hearts and minds in order for the coming Holy Year.

"How can we do other but open the heart to contrition; how can we lock in pride and hypocrisy there, precluding the possibility of true peace?" the pope asked, speaking to a crowd gathered on a wet, gray morning in St. Peter's Square.

GOD'S AMAZING GRACE (VIA EMAIL Jim Collins)

About three weeks ago, a local Vietnamese family's house burnt down due to their teenage son's careless smoking. The family lost everything. You see, the family had let their insurance on their house lapse, and all their clothes, appliances, everything was lost. And the family had no one to turn to, because they had no family or relatives in Canada.

The Church community responded with a call for donations. Over $30,000 was raised within one week. The government would not put this destitute family up in one of their 9 homes for destitute families because they were not in a shelter for 4 months. They denied them, even though the homes were all empty and the family offered to "pay the rent" on them. Further, the family could not find "short term 4 month" house rental accommodation.

The community responded, however. The local Ramada Inn said they could stay temporarily "for free" but only for a short time. The call went out in the church community for a home. Local nuns had an empty residence. They offered this to the family for the time until their home could be rebuilt. And now the family within 3 weeks has a place to stay for the 4 months. Another announcement went out today saying the family needed a refrigerator. At the end of Mass, a person offered a refrigerator for the family.

Now the nuns have a problem. They do not have the "manpower" to do heavy "fix up". Their gift was returned in kind. For the local high school has offered 10 people to come in and help to fix the residence.

God, by moving the spirit of His Faithful, has helped many. The Vietnamese woman's comment was that she did not know that there were so many "wonderful" people in her parish community.

It is amazing how God's Spirit works within the community that has "unconditional love" within their own hearts.

Glory be to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

149. If you seek prayer attentively you will find it; for nothing is more essential to prayer than attentiveness. So do all you can to acquire it.

December 5, 1999

THOUSANDS PRAY FOR RAIN AS DROUGHT SCORCHES MIDDLE EAST

(CNN) -- Thousands in the Middle East are thronging to mosques, fervently praying for an end to a drought that threatens their crops, their animals -- and their lives.

In Syria, the rainy season usually begins in October. Some provinces have received small amounts of rain this year. But not a drop has fallen in the capital, Damascus, which received 3 inches of rain last year, far less than the annual average of 8 inches. The regional water scarcity has affected Iraq and Jordan, which held similar rain prayers. Israel and Palestinian-run areas are also drought-stricken.

FREAK STORM HITS ENGLAND, NORTHERN EUROPE

(Reuters) - At least seven people died on Friday when gale-force winds swept across England, over the North Sea and smashed into Denmark in what the Meteorological Institute in Copenhagen called its worst storm of the century.

Winds of over 100 miles per hour left a trail of destruction and caused severe travel problems.

FLOODS AGAIN BATTER CENTRAL VIETNAM

(Reuters) - Heavy floods battered large swathes of central coastal Vietnam on Saturday, just a month after the region's worst floods in a century killed nearly 600 people, officials and state media said.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

148. Do not delight in words or in glory. Otherwise the demons will no longer work behind your back, but openly before your face; and they will laugh you to scorn during prayer, drawing you away and enticing you into strange thoughts.

December 4, 1999

FBI, PENTAGON BRACE FOR Y2K HACKER ATTACKS

(CNN) -- The FBI and the Pentagon are planning a special vigil as 1999 comes to a close, fearing both government and private sector computers could come under attack as the calendar changes to 2000.

Terrorists, hostile nations, criminals and recreational hackers could all launch assaults at the same time -- and could use Y2K malfunctions to hide their actions.

"It is not at all unreasonable to expect the people and the groups who engage in those activities every day might focus their activities at the same time around the date change," said Michael Vatis, head the National Infrastructure Protection Center (NIPC).

BIOTERRORISM PREPARATION SAID POOR

(AP) - The government's medical stockpiles for dealing with chemical or biological terrorism are poorly managed, often lacking vital drugs and adequate security, congressional auditors said Tuesday.

The General Accounting Office, an investigative arm of Congress, criticized the Departments of Health and Human Services and Veterans Affairs, as well as a special Marine Corps unit, for failing to manage their supplies for treating civilian victims of a chemical or biological terrorist attack.

``The poor management controls and lack of required items in their stockpiles lead us to conclude that they cannot provide reasonable assurance that the required medical supplies will be available if needed,'' the GAO said.

The federal stockpiles would respond if state and local authorities were overwhelmed by biological or chemical attacks. In September, emergency management and medical officials told a House subcommittee that local public health systems remain ill-prepared for such emergencies.

GREECE DETAINS 16 DOOMSDAY CULT MEMBERS

(Reuter) - Greek police on Friday detained 16 people alleged to be members of a U.S. doomsday cult plotting millennium violence to hasten the return of Jesus.

"They belong to the Concerned Christians cult and they arrived in Greece after Israel expelled them last January. There have been reports that apart from violent acts they could also commit mass suicide at the turn of the year," one official said.

The group's leader, Monte Kim Miller, has prophesied he would die in Jerusalem in 1999 and be resurrected three days later.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

147. If He who is in want of nothing and shows no favours did not receive the man coming with a gift to the altar until he was reconciled with his neighbour who had something against him (cf. Matt. 5:23-24), consider how much we must be on guard and use discrimination if we are to offer at the spiritual alter incense that is acceptable to God.

December 3, 1999

WORLD RELIGIOUS LEADERS PLAN 21ST CENTURY AGENDA

(Reuters) - Religious leaders from around the world met in Cape Town Wednesday to the thumping beat of African drums to set the moral agenda for the 21st century.

Jews, Jaines, Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Baptists sat side by side in the city's appropriately named Good Hope Center to kick off a week of debate during only the third sitting of the Parliament of World Religions in 106 years.

"By joining this parliament we do not have to give up the beliefs and practices of our faiths, but we do have to give to the human family of which we are all a part," said chief Rabbi Cyril Harris, one of several leaders who offered prayers.

ALGERIANS FEAR MORE MASSACRES AS HOLY MONTH NEARS

(Reuters) - Algerian newspapers said on Monday they feared more bloodshed after two massacres in which 28 people were killed as the country prepared for the Moslem fasting month of Ramadan, a violent period in recent years.

The government and residents earlier said Moslem rebels wearing army uniforms had slaughtered 28 travellers, including women and children, at bogus roadlocks during the weekend, bringing to more than 150 the number killed this month.

The rebels see the month during which Moslems fast from dawn to dusk as an auspicious period for their "holy war" to try to topple the largely secular government and replace it with a purist Islamic state.

"One should expect an upsurge of attacks as Ramadan nears, particularly massacres to hit at the heart of the nation's collective spirit," El Watan's commentary said. Algeria will start observing Ramadan on December 8 or 9, depending on the sighting of the new moon.

CLICK HERE AND SCROLL DOWN TO THE NOVEMBER 20TH ENTRY FOR A RAMADAN RELATED PRAYER REQUEST FROM A CHRISTIAN MISSIONARY.

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

146. Just as persistent staring at the sun in its noonday brilliance will not cure a man suffering from ophthalmia, so the counterfeit practice of fearful and supernal prayer- which is properly to be performed in spirit and in truth- will in no way benefit an intellect that is passionate and impure; on the contrary, such practice will provoke the wrath of God against the intellect.

December 2, 1999

(Psa 139:7-10) Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

ROBOT SEEKS WATER ON MARS

Once again this week, if all goes well, human ingenuity will touch a distant frontier that may be touched one day by humans themselves. A 639-pound, wired-for-sound robot will land gently on Mars, 157 million miles from Earth.

The Mars Polar Lander and two hitchhiking probes will prospect for water, a requirement for life as we know it, a key clue to the most fundamental mystery of the cosmos: Are we alone?

''The basic question we ask is, 'Are we unique or are we just another example of life in the universe?' '' said David Fisher, a University of Miami planetary scientist. ''We're trying to determine if Mars is a place that might be suitable for life.''

The craft is carrying the first microphone ever sent to the surface of another world. Anything it picks up (''Hey, Marstha, look at that thing that just landed! What the heck is that?'') will be instantly relayed around Earth through the Internet.

The sounds -- the whistling of Martian wind, the patter of Martian dust hitting the probe, possibly even sonic booms generated by passing meteors -- will be available on these Web sites:

http://marslander.jpl.nasa.gov
http://planetary.org

SCIENTISTS FIND SIX PLANETS OUTSIDE SOLAR SYSTEM

(Reuters) -- Six jumbo-sized planets have been detected orbiting stars outside our solar system, and five of the newly discovered objects are just the right distance from their suns to support life, astronomers said on Monday.

Five of them are squarely in what astronomers call the habitable zone, which could allow the existence of liquid water -- a prerequisite for life. This makes them different from most of the extrasolar planets found before this.

"These (five) planets are just the right distance, with temperatures in one case around 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42.22C) -- like a hot day in Sacramento," Steven Vogt, an astronomy professor at the University of California-Santa Cruz, said in a statement.

BRITAIN PLANS ARMAGEDDON CENTRE AS COMET SHIELD

Duncan Steel, an expert in comets and meteorites, who heads the space technology group at Salford University, said the threat from space was real. He added: "Life has existed on Earth for 3.8 billion years, but the course of evolution has been altered time and again by asteroid impacts. At last a species has evolved which has the ability to save itself and ensure its future. That species is us."

(Rev 6:12-17) I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of goat hair, the whole moon turned blood red, and the stars in the sky fell to earth, as late figs drop from a fig tree when shaken by a strong wind. The sky receded like a scroll, rolling up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and every free man hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?"

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

145. If a man, still enmeshed in sin and anger, dares shamelessly to reach out for knowledge of divine things, or even to embark upon immaterial prayer, he deserves the rebuke given by the Apostle; for it is dangerous for him to pray with head bare and uncovered. Such a soul, he says, ought 'to have a veil on her head because of the angels' who are present (cf. 1 Cor. 11:5-7), and to be clothed in due reverence and humility.

December 1, 1999

CLINTON WAIVES PROHIBITION AGAINST U.S. AID TO FAMILY PLANNING GROUPS

(CNN) -- Within hours of signing the final budget bill of the year on Monday, President Bill Clinton waived a provision prohibiting U.S. assistance to any international family planning group that promotes abortion, the White House announced Tuesday.

By signing the waiver on Monday, Clinton was in effect allowing most of the $385 million U.S. funds earmarked for international family planning groups to move forward, the White House said.

Under the compromise, the president accepted the legal prohibition on use of any U.S. tax dollars for any overseas group that promotes or performs abortion. In return, he negotiated the right to waiver the ban. By waiving it, the administration loses a small percentage of the overall budget for international family planning.

VIA EMAIL Stacey Voskans:

Found this announcement on EWTN's announcement board:

A Rosary for the Millenium

Reply to: [email protected]

We are launching a campaign called "ROSARYO PARA SA MILENYO" (A Rosary for the Millennium) in the Philippines.

The objective is to come up with a sufficient number of devotees who will pledge to pray the rosary from 9 pm - 12 midnight (local time) on New Years's Eve as our way of pleading the Blessed Mother for her intercession in sparing the world of the disastrous aftermath of the Millennium Bug.

We hope to launch this via a Presscon next week wherein we will invite CNN, NBC, etc. with local Marian groups who have pledged support in attendance.

We will be accepting Rosary Timeslot Pledges (from 9pm-12mn. in increments of 15 mins.) via tel. nos. (632) 934-0437 and (632) 645-4817 or via e-mail: [email protected]

HIS WATCHFUL SERVANTS FOUNDATION Prayer and Sacramental Warriors of Jesus & Mary 4 Lark St., New Marikina Subd., Sta. Elena, Marikina City, Philippines 1800

The Philokalia excerpt: Evagrios the Solitary "On Prayer"

144. Until a man is completely changed by repentance, he will be wise to remember his sins with sorrow and to recall the eternal fire which they justly deserve.

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