When it comes to lowering cholesterol levels, garlic stinks, according to a new study from the Stanford University School of Medicine.

They plan to take a lot of photos and record the experience when they go on a faith-based trip to Italy and Bosnia in May. The Grand Rapids couple will visit the Vatican, as well as religious sites in Monte Ste. Angelo, Loreto and Lanciano. In Bosnia, the city of Medjugorje holds a place where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to children every day since 1981.

Professor Kuldip C. Gupta, a founding member and president of Hindu University of America in Orlando, died Feb. 7 of a heart attack while traveling in Bombay, India. He was 66 years old.

A 20-year-old ox on the farm, named Bala, was nearing the end of his natural life span and had become incapacitated. The usual procedure in such situations, which happen regularly on ISKCON farms all over the world, is to make the animal as comfortable as possible by supplying food, water, shelter, and pain medication when necessary, until death occurs of its own accord. IKSCON community members, including children and others who are well-known to the cow or ox, attend to the dying creature, chanting and praying and stroking it lovingly, until it draws its last breath. This practice is rooted in their theology, which honors the sanctity of all life, even that of an individual ox.

by Ruth Gledhill, Religion CorrespondentThe London Times, February 10, 2007Thousands of churches face closure, demolition or conversion in the next decade, leading to the demise of some branches of Christianity in Europe, according to experts.

Fresh spinach enhances and enriches the texture of this hearty soup. Serve with Lemon Rice for a delightful combination of taste and color. Soak the dal well in advance.

"My chef friends and I have been arguing over what is safer to use wooden or plastic cutting boards. What do you use, Kurma?"