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Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Your New Year's Resolution: Make the Scale Your Friend...
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Apologetics for the Masses - Issue #107
Topic: Apologetics for the Masses – Issue #107
General Comments
I hope all of you have had a happy and holy Christmas and that the new year brings many blessings for you and your family.
Introduction
In the last few weeks I received a number of emails from readers of this newsletter asking about one of Dr. Joe Mizzi’s recent anti-catholic e-newsletters, in which he comments on what Pope Benedict said in one of his November audiences. Several of those emails had a sense of the writer being very agitated or disturbed by what Dr. Mizzi said in this particular newsletter, as if Joe was actually making sense to them and they needed to be re-assured that he was wrong…that somehow, somewhere, he was wrong.
First of all, let me say this: if you are currently receiving Dr. Joe Mizzi’s e-newsletters, and they upset you, then cancel your subscription! Just click on the “Unsubscribe” button at the bottom of his newsletter and be done with it!
Next, for the benefit of those who emailed me, and hopefully as a benefit to all the subscribers to this newsletter, I will respond to this particular e-newsletter of Dr. Mizzi’s. But, after this, please do not send me any more of his garbage.
Dr. Mizzi, being a medical doctor, is obviously a very smart man. But, unfortunately, when it comes to theology, to the Bible, and to the teachings of the Catholic Church, Joe, like so many others, does what I like to describe as, “gets stupid in a hurry.” Logic goes out the door. Sound reasoning goes out the door.
When it comes to the Bible, Joe has his beliefs and he will twist the Bible any way necessary to make it fit his beliefs. When it comes to Catholic teaching, Joe will ignore what I, and many many other Catholics, have told him about our faith, and claim the Catholic Church teaches things that it doesn’t actually teach – because that is simply what he wants to believe – proof to the contrary be damned.
So, I will respond to this e-newsletter of Joe Mizzi’s, but this will be the last time. So, again, I simply recommend that if you do not want trash coming into your inbox, please unsubscribe from Joe Mizzi’s newsletter at the first chance you get. And, even if he responds to what I say here, please don’t forward it to me, I will not respond to someone whose sincerity I doubt and whose motives I question.
Okay, below is what Dr. Mizzi wrote with my comments mixed in between his.
Challenge/Response/Strategy
Joe Mizzi’s Newsletter:
Pope Benedict and Justification:
Pope Benedict said that Martin Luther’s doctrine of justification by faith alone is correct if ‘faith is not opposed to charity.’ The Pope said this during a general audience in a speech on St Paul’s teaching on justification.
I am glad that the Pope corrected the false idea popularized by some irresponsible apologists that ‘sola fide’ (faith alone) implies freedom from doing good and license to sin (‘antinomianism’). The Reformers vehemently resisted and opposed the antinomian heresy. The Protestant concept of justification by faith alone never excluded good works in the life of the believer. On the character of genuine faith, Luther wrote: ‘Faith cannot help doing good works constantly. It doesn’t stop to ask if good works ought to be done, but before anyone asks, it already has done them and continues to do them without ceasing. Anyone who does not do good works in this manner is an unbeliever.’
My Comments: Sorry, but the Pope did not correct any false ideas by irresponsible apologists regarding sola fide. The Pope actually corrected the false ideas of many Sola Fide adherents that works, and love, have no role in our salvation. The error, the really critical error, that Joe Mizzi and most, if not all, Sola Fide adherents make, is this belief that faith without works really isn’t faith. They have to say this in an attempt to make their theology fit scripture. As Joe quotes Luther above, “Anyone who does not do good works in this manner is an unbeliever.” Problem is, for those who go by the Bible alone, the Bible nowhere says such a thing
As those who are regular readers of this newsletter know, I have, time after time after time, shown that Scripture teach es us, as does the Catholic Church, that faith without works is still faith…it is just dead faith. Faith alone is still faith, but it is dead faith. How many times have I asked Sola Fide adherents, in past issues of this newsletter, to read James 2:26 – “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead,” – and then answer one simple question: Is the body without the spirit still a body…yes or no?
I have yet to receive an answer. Why? Because they can’t answer that question without contradicting themselves. Think about it, this verse says that both body and spirit are necessary for life – physical life. Then it draws an analogy – faith is analogous to the body, works are analogous to the spirit. So, for the analogy to hold, both faith and works are necessary for life – spiritual life. Does this verse say that the body without the spirit really isn’t a body? No It says the b ody without the spirit is dead. So, again, for the analogy to hold, is faith without works not really faith? No It is still faith, but it is dead faith.
So, when anyone claims, as Sola Fide adherents are forced to claim, that faith without works really isn’t faith – they are directly contradicting the very clear words of the Bible. Which is why no one has ever answered my question. Because all the bodies down at the morgue are still bodies – they just happen to be dead. Faith, without works, is still faith, but it is dead faith – it cannot save you. So, Sola Fide, faith alone – without works – cannot save you. Sola Fide – faith alone – is dead faith. Faith without works is not the equivalent of not having faith – as Martin Luther used to believe and as Joe Mizzi and his ilk still believe – it is the equivalent of having dead faith. (By the way, I said as Martin Luther used to believe because now he knows bette r.)
Joe Mizzi: Moreover the Pope also said that faith means to trust in Christ. ‘Faith is to look at Christ, to entrust oneself to Christ…’. In traditional Catholic theology, faith is defined as the assent of the intellect to divine truth. Protestants emphasized trust (‘fiducia’), in addition to knowledge and assent, as the essential element of saving faith. It is not enough to know God’s Word, or even to be convinced that it is factually true – to be saved, one must entrust himself to Christ, resting on him alone for salvation.
My Comments: The Pope is not coming up with some “new” definition of faith as Joe seems to believe. If you read what the Pope said in context, he is basically saying that if you define “faith” as being faith accompanied by works, then the Catholic Church essentially has no problem saying that faith alone, by Go d’s grace alone, saves us. That’s why the Pope said, as Dr. Mizzi quoted above, “If faith is not opposed to charity.” In other words, if by “faith” you mean faith working through love (faith and works), as it says in Gal 5:6, then we’ve got no problem with that. If, however, you say that works done in love through faith play no role in our salvation – meaning you have set faith and charity in opposition to one another – then we do have a problem with that.
Joe Mizzi: The Pope noted that the apostle Paul places at the center of his Gospel an irreducible opposition between two alternative paths to justice: one based on the works of the law, the other founded on the grace of faith in Christ.’ In other words, one cannot be saved by faith in Christ if he also attempts to be saved by ‘works of the law’. This is exactly what Protestants mean when we speak of ‘sola fi de’ – we are justified by trusting in Christ and not on account of our works.
My Comments: In other words, one cannot be saved by Christ if he also attempts to be saved by the Old Testament rites and practices. Paul was saying to the Jews: the Old Covenant has been fulfilled in the New Covenant instituted by Christ. No need for circumcision, you now have baptism. No need for animal sacrifices, you now have the one perfect sacrifice. And so on. The distinction Paul makes is not one that puts faith and works – feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and imprisoned, etc. – in opposition to one another, it is a distinction that puts the Old Covenant practices and institutions – circumcision, the Passover meal, animal sacrifices, dietary restrictions, the Levitical priesthood, etc. – in opposition to the New Covenant practices and institutions – baptism and the other sacraments, the sacrifice of Christ as the true Lamb of God, essentially no dietary restrictions, the priesthood of Christ after the order of Melchizedek, etc.
The phrase, “works of the law,” refers to the Old Testament rites and practices, not to works of love done by faith. Joe Mizzi is sorely mistaken in this.
Joe Mizzi: By Faith and Works
On one hand the Pope endorses Paul’s teaching of justification by faith, apart from works of the law; on the other, he insists that we can really be just in the eyes of God on account of our love for God and neighbor. That is justification by love, or, justification by human works, for how can we express love apart from doing good works?
The Pope argues that faith unites us with Christ, enabling us to love God and others, and in so doing, we fulfill the law and become really righteous. He said that the double love of God and neighbor the whole law is fu lfilled. Thus the whole law is observed in communion with Christ, in faith that creates charity.’ He concluded his speech by saying that ‘transformed by his love, by love of God and neighbor, we can really be just in the eyes of God.’
To be sure such works of love are not done by our natural abilities; we must have faith, we must be united with Christ to really love. But ultimately, it is on account of these personal works that we are justified by God, according to Catholicism.
My Comments: This is where Dr. Mizzi shows himself, once again, to be either willfully ignorant of Catholic teaching, or to be an outright malicious liar. I have told him over and over again, that we are not justified by our works. In fact, in at least one of our previous exchanges, he stated that he knows the Catholic Church does not teach that we are justified by our works. Yet, he claims here Catholics believe just that. He is co ntradicting himself. Why does he do that? Again, it’s either out of willful ignorance, or because he is simply a liar and he is lying to try and sway the ignorant to his position and away from the truth.
The Catholic Church teaches that one’s works are of absolutely no avail, unless one is already in a state of justification. Dr. Joe Mizzi, what about that can you not understand? How can you say that Catholicism teaches justification by works, when the Church clearly teaches that one must be in a state of grace…must be a member of the Body of Christ…must be already saved…must be already justified…for any personal works of theirs to have merit (in, through, and by Christ).
So, to say that we believe we are justified by our personal works, when we teach that our personal works are of no use unless we are already justified, is the height of absurdity! If I’m not already in a state of justification, then my works don’t count for anything. They certainly do not justify me. If I have to already be in a state of justification before my works count for anything, then how can you say we believe works justify us? We’re already justified before we do a single work that counts for anything!
Works do not justify us. God’s grace does that. However, if we do not respond to God’s grace, with faith and works, then we can indeed lose our justification. Faith and works help us to hold on to what God has already given us. If we lose our faith, or if we do not do the works that God has prepared for us – we do not do the will of God for our lives – then we can lose the gift of justification…the gift of salvation…that God has given us through Baptism.
Joe Mizzi: Works of the Law
How does the Pope resolve the contradiction between Paul’s teaching and Catholic doctrine? Didn’t Paul clearly state that ‘we hold that a man is justified by faith apart from works of law’? (Romans 3:28).
My Comments: There is no conflict between Paul’s teaching and actual Catholic doctrine. There is, however, conflict between Paul’s teaching and Joe Mizzi’s version of Catholic doctrine.
Joe Mizzi: In effect the Pope says that Paul was only referring to the Torah, the first five books of Moses. The Torah included rituals and cultural observances, in addition to ethical and moral principles, which distinguished and guarded Israel from the false religions of the pagans. But since the coming of Christ, those observances are no longer necessary. Thus when Paul says that we are not justified by the works of the Law, he was really saying that we are not justified by the Law of Moses, but he does not exclude that we are justified by the works of love. That’s the Pope’s argument in a nu tshell.
My Comments: That is not the Pope’s argument “in a nutshell.” That is Joe Mizzi’s erroneous interpretation of the Pope’s argument based on his blatantly prejudiced and erroneous assertions regarding Catholic doctrine. The Pope does not teach that we are “justified” by works of love. Again, as I said above, works of love are of absolutely no use unless one is already justified.
Joe Mizzi: The Pope rightly points out that in his epistles Paul discusses the division between Jews and Gentiles, and that now all believers are united in Christ irrespective of the ethnic background. But that was not his only concern. Paul also addresses the universal human tendency to self–righteousness, that is, our attempts to gain favour with God on account of personal works and merits.
We agree that when Paul spoke about the Law, he was thinking particular ly of the Torah, the Law of Moses, and not of the law in general. But that does not mean that we can dismiss his argument as irrelevant since we are no longer required to obey to Jewish ceremonies and rituals. The Torah did indeed include ceremonial and civil precepts, but it also included moral laws. Jesus summarized the Law of Moses as the supreme love for God and love for our neighbor, and said that ‘on these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets’ (Matthew 22:37–40).
What then, if the Mosaic Law – with its ceremonial, civil and moral laws – could not justify, how can we now become just in God’s eyes if we take away the ceremonial and focus on the law’s moral teaching, namely love? Can we obey the law perfectly?
My Comments: Once again, Joe is arguing against a supposedly Catholic belief, but it is a Catholic belief of his own making – not one that the Catholic Church actually teaches or that Catholic actually believe. We cannot become “just in God’s eyes” simply by focusing on the Mosaic Law’s moral teaching. Nowhere does Pope Benedict say that…nowhere does the Catholic Church teach that. This is a straw man that Joe has invented from his own imagination.
Joe Mizzi: The problem is not with the Law of Moses; Paul declares that ‘the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good’ (Romans 7:12). The problem is with us, sinners by nature, and even after regeneration, the remaining corruption prevents the most mature Christians from reaching moral perfection on this side of eternity. If the Jew could not be justified by the works of the perfect Law, no–one could be justified by the works of any law. After all did not the Gentiles, though ignorant of Moses, also have ‘the law written in their hearts’ (Romans 2:14)? Yet they too were un able to be justified by works.
The Law of Moses served the purpose of keeping God’s covenant people, Israel, distinct from pagan idolatry, as the Pope said. But the moral aspects of the law, whether written on tablets of stone or on the human conscience, also served to expose our depravity, guilt and helplessness. ‘Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin’ (Romans 3:20).
My Comments: No, the problem is not with the Law of Moses, the problem is with Dr. Joe Mizzi and his imaginary Catholic beliefs. By the way, Joe, where does the Bible say it is impossible for anyone to reach moral perfection “this side of eternity?” Does not the Bible say that all things are possible with God? Apparently you don’t believe that, do you? Because if you did, you wouldn’t throw out such unbiblical statements like that. Again, we do not believe that we can be justified by works, so Joe is arguing against a straw man of his own creation. As he has every other time we have debated.
Joe Mizzi: By Faith, Not Works
To the Torah. He presented the Patriarch Abraham as the primary witness to his doctrine. He wrote:
“What then shall we say that Abraham our father has found according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.’ Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.” (Romans 4:1–5).
In this context “works” could not refer exclusively to obedience of the Torah, for Abrah am lived many centuries before Moses. It is therefore wrong to force Paul’s concept of ‘works of the Law’ exclusively to the Law of Moses. Clearly Paul applies the same principle to works in general. Abraham could not boast before God because he was justified faith and not by works. The same applies to us all.
Paul then gives an example from ordinary life – when a worker receives his payment at the end of the month, could it be considered as grace, a free gift, a favour? Certainly not The worker has every right for the money he earned by his labour.
But justification is not based on the principle of merit. The very opposite is true. Justification is by grace, pure and underserved grace. Only he is counted as righteous by the divine Judge who ‘does not work’ but ‘believes’ God. That is grace
My Comments: First of all, if you read Romans 4, you see that the conte xt in which Paul is speaking is one of circumcised vs. uncircumcised…in other words, Jew vs. Gentile. Circumcision, while existing before the Mosaic Law, was one of the works that identified one as a Jew. That along with adherence to the precepts of the Mosaic Law. Paul’s context was not one where works referred to feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and so on. But, even if it was, Joe is still arguing against something that we don’t teach…that one can be justified by good works. We don’t teach it…we don’t believe it. If we believed that, then we would believe that an atheist is justified by his good works. But, we don’t. Yet, Joe Mizzi is arguing against it as if it was Catholic teaching.
Abraham was justified, by God’s grace, through faith. Yet, if Abraham had disobeyed God after he was justified – if, for instance, he had said, “No,” when God told him to sacrifice Isaac, would he not ha ve lost his justification for disobeying the will of God? If Abraham had refused to circumcise himself and all in his household, would he not have lost his justification for disobeying the will of God? Joe Mizzi believes Abraham could have refused God’s command to sacrifice Isaac and to circumcise all in his household and that Abraham would have still been justified. Yet, Scripture tells us that if we do not do the will of God, we do not enter the Kingdom. Who do you want to believe…Joe Mizzi, or the Bible?
Joe Mizzi: Faith Working Through Love
Once more it must pointed out that the question is not about the propriety and necessity of good works in the life of believers. On this point, Paul, Luther and the Pope are in agreement. The question, though, has to do with the purpose of such works.
In Catholicism, the faithful are urged to do works in the hope that they will eventually become ̵ 6;really’ just in the eyes of God on account of their ‘love to God and neighbour’. In Paul’s teaching, we are not justified on account of any personal works, but by faith; good works follow after faith and justification. In Catholicism faith is insufficient; it must be supplemented by works to really justify. In biblical Christianity, faith is sufficient, faith truly justifies the beliver on account of Christ’s blood and righteousness, and having justified the sinner, faith then works by love (Galatians 5:6) to the glory of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ. In Catholicism justification is by faith and works – therefore it cannot be of grace (Romans 11:6); in biblical Christianity justification is by faith, that it might be of grace (Romans 4:16).
My Comments: The question is not about the “purpose of such works,” the question is this: If we do not do the works that God has prepared for us bef orehand that we should walk in them (Eph 2:10), will we still keep our justification, or will we lose our justification? In other words, if we do not do the will of God for our lives, will we still enter the Kingdom (Matt 7:21)?
In Catholicism, the faithful are urged to do good works for the love of God. If one does good works for any reason other than the love of God, then the good work is essentially useless, in spiritual terms. They are urged to continually grow in love of God, by opening their hearts up to more and more of God’s grace through prayer, reception of the sacraments, and good works.
In Catholicism, as in the Bible, faith alone is indeed insufficient (James 2:24). In Catholicism, as in the Bible, works alone are indeed insufficient (Heb 11:6). What counts is faith working through love (Gal 5:6) and all by the grace of God (Titus 3:7).
Here we see Joe once again asserting that “good works follow after faith and justification,” ; but notice he doesn’t give us a scripture verse which tells us such a thing. Has he not read Jesus’ words to the seven churches in Rev 2 and 3? It is obvious that some of the justified failed to do the good works Jesus requires of them.
Joe goes on to say one of the things that has absolutely puzzled me about folks like him. Consider that he admits, earlier in his email, that good works are done by grace. And, he also believes that faith is by grace. So, when he says that in Catholicism salvation is by faith and works, “therefore it cannot be of grace,” that is one of the most ridiculous things I believe I’ve ever read. Faith is by grace. Works are by grace. But, faith and works together, are not by grace. I don’t know what else to call that kind of logic, except idiotic. A first class example that the dumbest of ideas come out of the mouths of the smartest of people.
One last thing: If we need works in order to be “rea lly” justified as Catholics, then how can we say an infant is justified after his or her Baptism? What work did that infant do to be justified? None. Is that infant not “really” justified because it hasn’t done any works, as Joe contends? No! That infant, upon its Baptism, is as justified as a soul can possibly be – yet it has done no works. Think about that, Dr. Joe.
Joe Mizzi: Here then is the dividing line between Trent and Luther, Catholicism and Protestantism, the true gospel and its counterfeit. May God give us the grace to believe in Jesus his Son, and being justified by faith alone, to give ourselves to love God and our neighbour from our hearts.
My Comments: Here then is the dividing line between truth and error, between Joe Mizzi’s version of Catholicism and the true version of Catholicism, between insanity and reason, be tween the true gospel and the false gospel, between those who believe the Son and those who believe the father of all lies. Let us pray that Joe Mizzi will one day have the scales removed from his eyes and that his wounds will one day be healed.
In Conclusion
Again, I hope 2009 brings many blessings to all of you and your loved ones.
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'Dozens die' in Bangkok nightclub
At least 53 people have been killed and dozens injured in a fire at a Bangkok nightclub, Thai police say.
For more details: http://www.bbcnews.com
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Russia-Ukraine gas talks 'fail'
Russian energy giant Gazprom says talks with Ukraine have failed and gas will be cut off on Thursday - amid fears Europe may also be hit.
For more details: http://www.bbcnews.com
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Gazan civilians increasingly at risk in assault on Hamas, How hot was 2008?, and more
Today's News: Dec. 31, 2008
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Everyone is looking for a new book to start off the New Year.
Why don't you check out our "Best of" lists for 2008!
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Top Stories
Pakistani militant confesses to role in Mumbai attacks
The diplomatic row between India and Pakistan continues to deepen following the November terrorist attack as both countries send more troops to their borders.
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Gazan civilians increasingly at risk in assault on Hamas
Israel may consider a 48-hour cease-fire with Hamas, but threatened a ground invasion if militant rockets didn't stop during a temporary truce.
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Defiant Blagojevich announces replacement for Obama's Senate seat
His pick, former Illinois attorney general Burris, is well-regarded but lost his last four campaigns.
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Chihuahua City now a model for cleaning up Mexico's police
A three-month-old program that allows human rights workers 24-hour access to live images of prison life is the newest effort toward transparency for Chihuahua's lauded police department.
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Commentary
The Monitor's View: Time to build trust on immigration
The time is not ripe for reform, and should be used to improve enforcement against illegals.
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Gaza crisis: a crossroads for Obama
It could bring renewal - if Obama is bold enough to stand up to Israel.
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Israel, Hamas, and moral idiocy
Much of the world's response is a false moral equivalence that simply encourages the terrorists.
http://www.elabs5.com/ct.html?rtr=on&s=o1l,3y6k,er,8b,e2d0,i4ns,g971
Features
The secret literary life of George W. Bush
It is perhaps something they should have told us sooner: George W. Bush is a voracious reader.
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2008�s most intriguing, fun, and brave technologies
Column: Tom Regan rolls through the year�s clever devices and creative decisions
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How hot was 2008?
It was the coldest year since 2000, yet one of the 10 hottest years on record.
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Backstory
The 'micro' enterprise that is chip repair
Rodrigo Alvarez can't afford to replace the defective microprocessors on which his PhD depends, and so he�s learning to fix them himself.
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The Home Forum
Ring in the new year with fondue
A simple meal has become a classic holiday tradition.
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To read or not to read, that is the question.
A New Year's resolution to read a Shakespearean drama each month drew all sorts of reactions from strangers.
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Christian Science Perspective: Prayer to end fear in Gaza
Whatever political or intellectual reasons have been given for the current turmoil in Gaza - and there are many described in the Monitor's article "Gaza: Why Israel and Hamas are trading rocket fire" (Dec. 29) - a chief reason for them all is fear.
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News in Brief
World
For at least the third time in two months, Pakistani authorities closed the main supply route for deliveries of food, fuel, and other supplies to coalition forces in neighboring Afghanistan. One administrator said the move was necessary because Pakistan's Army had begun a new offensive against militants along the border. US commanders in Afghanistan say they have adequate stocks to continue their mission but are exploring new supply routes.
Making his required first policy address, new Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva pledged to heal the nation's deep political divisions and "help the country weather economic hardship." But critics noted that opposition pressure � thousands of demonstrators have been blocking Parliament � caused him to give the speech at the Foreign Ministry. A spokesman for the protesters said they wouldn't have harmed Abhisit; they only wanted him to have to walk through their midst.
Voters in Bangladesh gave former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's alliance a landslide victory in the first election there in seven years. But she asked supporters not to celebrate publicly out of worry that doing so could cause violent confrontations with backers of the rival Nationalist Party. The Election Commission said her Awami League and its partners were headed for a two-thirds majority in Parliament. Analysts cautioned that the size of the victory may raise expectations that she'll be able to deliver on all her campaign promises.
A new pro-India coalition was poised to assume control of Kashmir's government, based on the outcome of elections in the Muslim-majority state that ended last week. But while its charismatic chief minister pledged to work for unity with Muslim separatists, a spokesman for the latter dismissed the coalition as a reshuffling of the same faces and ideologies. The voting was largely peaceful, although more than 50 people were killed in weeks of protest against Indian rule.
Thousands of Ghanians thronged the nation's electoral commission headquarters Tuesday, expecting to hear opposition leader John Atta Mills declared the winner of the presidential runoff election. As vote-counting neared completion, he led ruling party candidate Nana Akufo-Addo 52.1 percent to 47.9 percent. But Akufo-Addo's New Patriotic Party alleged irregularities and was expected to demand a recount.
Despite a 1.3 percent gain as trading ended Tuesday, Japan's Nikkei stock index had the worst year in its history. The average, one of the world's most influential benchmarks, lost 42 percent of its value due to plummeting demand for Japanese exports (especially cars and electronics) and the surging value of the yen against other currencies. Trading on the Tokyo exchange will resume Monday.
Led by the cyclone that struck coastal Burma (Myanmar) last May, the Szechuan earthquake in China days later, and hurricane Ike in early September, natural disasters made 2008 the third-costliest year on record, reinsurance giant Munich Re reported. It said Asia was the hardest-hit in terms of loss of life. Overall insured losses, Munich Re said, will come to about $200 billion, with uninsured losses adding another $45 billion. Reinsurance allows insurance companies to protect themselves against the impact of claims by buying coverage from other companies.
Search teams recovered the remains of all but one of eight snowmobilers buried under avalanches in British Columbia. The remaining man wasn't expected to be found alive. All were experienced outdoorsmen and were carrying proper safety gear, reports said. But they became trapped by two massive snow slides within minutes of each other. The region was blanketed by more than two feet of snow over Christmas week.
USA
The consumer confidence index fell to an all-time low in December, the Conference Board, an independent economic research group, reported Tuesday. The drop to a 38 reading from a revised 44.7 in November was driven by concerns about lost jobs, analysts believe.
A judge overseeing the liquidation of Bernard Madoff's investment firm in New York approved Tuesday the transfer of $28.1 million to cover expenses, including employee salaries. Madoff is accused of running an elaborate Ponzi scheme that duped individual and institutional clients out of potentially $50 billion.
A lawsuit brought by Gulf Coast trailer dwellers against the federal government and several trailer manufacturers failed to achieve class-action status Monday. A US district judge in New Orleans ruled that each person's claim that the government-issued emergency housing is shoddily built and potentially dangerous is unique and must be handled separately. The plaintiffs have lived in the trailers since hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit in 2005.
The attorney for embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D) told Illinois lawmakers Monday that no one knows the full context of remarks his client is heard making on FBI tape recordings that led to corruption charges. Ed Genson urged a House committee to not recommend Blagojevich's impeachment.
Three days of unusual earthquake activity in Yellowstone National Park have scientists closely monitoring what one geophysicist said might be "something precursory." The park, located in an active volcanic and tectonic area, is accustomed to small quakes, but more than 250 tremors, including one with a magnitude of 3.3 Monday, could be a sign that something bigger is coming.
The US population grew by roughly 3 million residents in 2008 and will enter the new year at an estimated 305.5 million, according to the Census Bureau.
Grammy-winning jazz musician Freddie Hubbard, whose exuberant playing style influenced new generations of trumpeters, died Monday in Sherman Oaks, Calif. During his career, which began in 1958, Hubbard played with such greats as John Coltrane and Miles Davis.The Christian Science Monitor
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Your daily e-mail from the BBC
BBC DAILY E-MAIL: WORLD EDITION
Wednesday, 31 December, 2008, 16:00 GMT 10:00 -06:00:US/Central
Wednesday, 31 December, 2008, 16:00 GMT 10:00 -06:00:US/Central
................................
BBC NEWS
................................
TOP STORIES
* Israel rejects Gaza truce calls *
International proposals for a 48-hour humanitarian truce in Gaza are dismissed by Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/middle_east/7805558.stm
* Milk scandal executives on trial *
Four milk firm executives go on trial in China over a contamination scandal that affected thousands of babies.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/7805560.stm
* Record stock market falls in 2008 *
Asian shares see record falls in 2008 as the financial turmoil and economic slowdown ends the stock market boom.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7805644.stm
* Australia celebrates the New Year *
Festivities are beginning around the world to usher in 2009, with lavish fireworks displays in Australia and New Zealand.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/7806219.stm
* Bomb blast targets Basque TV site *
A car bomb explodes near a Basque television building in the city of Bilbao in northern Spain - no casualties are reported.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/europe/7805877.stm
................................
AFRICA
* Scramble for decisive Ghana votes *
Opposition candidate John Atta Mills heads for the Ghana constituency which will decide the tight presidential run-off.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/africa/7805861.stm
* Zimbabwe activists to stay jailed *
A Zimbabwe judge rules that 16 activists accused of organising military training must remain in jail.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/africa/7805733.stm
* Ethiopia 'packing up in Somalia' *
Ethiopian troops start to prepare to leave Somalia as the deadline looms for them to quit, witnesses say.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/africa/7806014.stm
................................
AMERICAS
* Obama rejects Senate replacement *
Barack Obama says Democratic senators are right to reject the Illinois governor's choice as his Senate replacement.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/americas/7805412.stm
* Hudson accused appears in court *
The man accused of murdering three of actress Jennifer Hudson's family is indicted by a grand jury in Chicago.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/entertainment/7805867.stm
* Grim details of Columbia disaster *
The space shuttle crew tried valiantly to regain control of their doomed orbiter, says a Nasa report into the 2003 disaster.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/americas/7805481.stm
................................
ASIA-PACIFIC
* Milk scandal executives on trial *
Four milk firm executives go on trial in China over a contamination scandal that affected thousands of babies.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/7805560.stm
* Record stock market falls in 2008 *
Asian shares see record falls in 2008 as the financial turmoil and economic slowdown ends the stock market boom.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7805644.stm
* Australia celebrates the New Year *
Festivities are beginning around the world to usher in 2009, with lavish fireworks displays in Australia and New Zealand.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/7806219.stm
................................
EUROPE
* Bomb blast targets Basque TV site *
A car bomb explodes near a Basque television building in the city of Bilbao in northern Spain - no casualties are reported.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/europe/7805877.stm
* South Russian ex-mayor shot dead *
A former mayor of Vladikavkaz, in Russia's troubled North Caucasus, is shot dead - a month after a sniper killed his successor.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/europe/7805750.stm
* Ukraine 'threatens to seize gas' *
Russia's Gazprom claims Ukraine is threatening to seize Russian gas being transported to Europe in a row over gas supplies.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7805770.stm
................................
MIDDLE EAST
* Israel rejects Gaza truce calls *
International proposals for a 48-hour humanitarian truce in Gaza are dismissed by Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/middle_east/7805558.stm
* Iranian raid on Ebadi condemned *
A new raid by the Iranian authorities on an office of Nobel Peace Prize winner and lawyer Shirin Ebadi is widely condemned.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/middle_east/7806195.stm
* Iraq shoe thrower trial postponed *
The trial of the Iraqi journalist who threw shoes at US President Bush is postponed pending an appeal against the charges.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/middle_east/7804856.stm
................................
SOUTH ASIA
* 'Forty held' in Khyber operation *
Pakistani forces arrest 40 people and destroy suspected militant bases and houses in a key offensive in the Khyber Pass.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/south_asia/7805915.stm
* S Asia New Year festivity subdued *
New Year celebrations in South Asia are set to be muted with the deadly attacks in Mumbai still fresh in the memory.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/south_asia/7806377.stm
* Hasina urges rival to accept poll *
The winner of the first national elections in Bangladesh for seven years urges her defeated rival to accept the results.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/south_asia/7805590.stm
................................
UK NEWS
* Sport stars lead New Year Honours *
Olympians Chris Hoy and Rebecca Adlington and F1 driver Lewis Hamilton head the New Year Honours list.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/7804822.stm
* UK offers emergency aid to Gaza *
The UK pledges nearly £7m in emergency aid to Gaza as international calls for a ceasefire in the conflict continue.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7805706.stm
* Adams slides into administration *
Childrenswear retailer Adams becomes the latest High Street chain to call in the administrators as consumer spending slows.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7806282.stm
................................
UK POLITICS
* UK offers emergency aid to Gaza *
The UK pledges nearly £7m in emergency aid to Gaza as international calls for a ceasefire in the conflict continue.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7805706.stm
* Private firm 'may run' phone log *
A private company could be asked to log details of all telephone calls, emails and internet use, it is reported.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7805610.stm
* Cameron urges 'positive vision' *
The Tories must offer a "positive vision of change" to help people through the "dark days" ahead, David Cameron says.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7804599.stm
................................
UK EDUCATION
* Sats tests 'face delays in 2009' *
There is a "significant" risk pupils in England could face a repeat of last summer's Sats test fiasco, the exams watchdog warns.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/education/7805559.stm
* Science blow for Scots in 2008 *
BBC Scotland education correspondent Seonag Mackinnon looks back at the major issues of 2008.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/education/7804895.stm
* Leading school improver knighted *
Two pioneering school improvers are knighted as head teachers and civil servants are recognised in the New Year's honours list.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/education/7805086.stm
................................
ENGLAND
* Adlington heads New Year honours *
Olympic gold medal winners Rebecca Adlington and Tim Brabants head the Nottinghamshire people honoured in the New Year Honours list.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/england/nottinghamshire/7804543.stm
* Paramedics held over man's death *
Two paramedics are arrested on suspicion of neglecting to perform a public duty following the death of a man in Brighton.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/england/sussex/7805362.stm
* Several hurt in 20-car collision *
Several people are hurt when more than 20 vehicles are involved in a series of collisions in "treacherous" driving conditions.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/england/hereford/worcs/7806122.stm
................................
NORTHERN IRELAND
* Neighbour denies Christmas murder *
A neighbour of an 81-year-old woman found dead at her home on Christmas Day is charged with murdering the pensioner.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7805441.stm
* Laser shone at helicopter pilot *
The police issue a warning about the use of laser pens after one is shone into the eyes of a police helicopter pilot.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7806397.stm
* Children caught up in gun attack *
A father and his children are at home during a gun attack at their house near Armoy in County Antrim, police say.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7806284.stm
................................
SCOTLAND
* Freeze hits as revellers gear up *
Temperatures are set to dip well below freezing as revellers take to the streets to celebrate Hogmanay.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/7805623.stm
* 'Mummified' head found on pathway *
Forensic tests are under way after a human head is found in a bag by a woman on a public footpath in Edinburgh.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/7806326.stm
* Hoy and mother celebrate honours *
Olympic cycling hero Chris Hoy is knighted in the New Year Honours List and his mother becomes an MBE.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/7804930.stm
................................
WALES
* Golden stars head Welsh honours *
Gold-winning athletes and coaches head the honours list in Wales after their success in Beijing.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/wales/7804976.stm
* Attempted armed raid on bookies *
Police hunt two men, one believed to have a shotgun, who tried to rob a betting shop late at night.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/wales/7806280.stm
* CCTV of 'mad Friday' shop attacks *
Police release a CCTV image of a man who appears to use a bag of chips to help conceal an attack on high street stores.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/wales/mid_/7804367.stm
................................
BUSINESS
* Record stock market falls in 2008 *
Asian shares see record falls in 2008 as the financial turmoil and economic slowdown ends the stock market boom.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7805644.stm
* Ukraine 'threatens to seize gas' *
Russia's Gazprom claims Ukraine is threatening to seize Russian gas being transported to Europe in a row over gas supplies.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7805770.stm
* Retailer Morgan in administration *
Women's clothing store chain Morgan goes into administration, the latest retailer to be hit by the consumer slowdown.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7805786.stm
................................
ENTERTAINMENT
* Pratchett leads showbiz honours *
Author Terry Pratchett, jazz star Courtney Pine, singer Robert Plant and actor Michael Sheen are among the entertainment figures in the New Year Honours list.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/entertainment/7805143.stm
* Actor Harrelson marries in Hawaii *
Hollywood film actor Woody Harrelson weds his partner of 20 years at a ceremony in Maui, his spokeswoman says.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/entertainment/7805714.stm
* Friends bid Pinter final farewell *
Family and close friends of playwright Harold Pinter have gathered to say farewell at a private funeral.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/entertainment/arts_and_culture/7805812.stm
................................
SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENT
* Grim details of Columbia disaster *
The space shuttle crew tried valiantly to regain control of their doomed orbiter, says a Nasa report into the 2003 disaster.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/americas/7805481.stm
* Honour for Royal Society luminary *
Prof Martin Taylor, vice president of the Royal Society, heads the list of scientists recognised in the New Year Honours.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7804664.stm
* Plants 'more important than ever' *
The role of plants has never been so vital, says the head of Kew Gardens, as the site turns 250 years old.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/7805804.stm
................................
TECHNOLOGY
* UK housewives rule in online time *
UK housewives are spending the most leisure time online, according to a survey that reveals the world's web habits.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/technology/7789494.stm
* Pioneer of cyberspace honoured *
A professor who invented a forerunner of the world wide web is made a dame in the New Year Honours.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7806093.stm
* Crime to boom as downturn blooms *
The global downturn looks set to help hi-tech criminals cash in, say security experts.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/technology/7797946.stm
................................
HEALTH
* Grape extract kills cancer cells *
An extract from grape seeds can destroy cancer cells by encouraging them to commit suicide, US research suggests.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/7803619.stm
* 'Blood pressure gene' affects 20% *
One in five white people carries a gene fault which could raise their risk of high blood pressure, research suggests.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/7802743.stm
* Cyberknife boost to cancer care *
A robot radiotherapy machine to treat cancer is to be available in the UK for the first time from February.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/7791315.stm
................................
ON THIS DAY
* 1964: Campbell speeds to double record *
Donald Campbell breaks the world water speed record, the only man to break both land and water speed records in the same year.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/31/newsid_3243000/3243010.stm
* 1999: Putin takes over as Yeltsin resigns *
Boris Yeltsin has resigned as Russian president and says Prime Minister Vladimir Putin will take over immediately.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/31/newsid_4102000/4102107.stm
* 1987: Zeebrugge heroes honoured *
People who displayed heroism during the Zeebrugge ferry disaster are recognised in the New Year's Honours List.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/31/newsid_2560000/2560075.stm
................................
BBC SPORT
................................
TOP STORIES
* Hoy knighted in New Year honours *
Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy is knighted in the New Year Honours list, as Bradley Wiggins and Ben Ainslie become CBEs, Rebecca Adlington is appointed OBE and Lewis Hamilton becomes an MBE.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/front_page/7804849.stm
* Sharapova hopeful for Aussie Open *
Maria Sharapova is "hopeful" of being fit to defend her Australian Open title despite withdrawing from an exhibition event in Hong Kong.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/tennis/7805689.stm
* Given will not be sold - Kinnear *
Newcastle manager Joe Kinnear insists Shay Given will not be leaving St James' Park in January.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/7805887.stm
* Hull 0-1 Aston Villa *
Aston Villa regain fourth place in the table after a late own goal by Kamil Zayatte gives them victory over Hull.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7788523.stm
* South Africa bid to take top spot *
South Africa can eclipse Australia as the leading Test-playing nation with victory in the third and final Test which begins in Sydney on Saturday.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/cricket/7806101.stm
................................
FOOTBALL
* Addicks appoint Parkinson as boss *
Charlton make caretaker boss Phil Parkinson their new manager on a permanent basis.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/c/charlton_athletic/7806330.stm
* Given will not be sold - Kinnear *
Newcastle manager Joe Kinnear insists Shay Given will not be leaving St James' Park in January.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/newcastle_united/7805887.stm
* Davies poised to land Forest job *
Nottingham Forest name Billy Davies as their preferred candidate for the club's vacant managerial post.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/nottm_forest/7805993.stm
................................
AFRICAN FOOTBALL
* Hearts' Obua could return early *
Hearts midfielder David Obua should return to action earlier than expected from injury.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/h/heart_of_midlothian/7795834.stm
* Belhadj earns Portsmouth contract *
Portsmouth sign defender Nadir Belhadj on a permanent deal after a successful loan spell.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/p/portsmouth/7804796.stm
* Uganda prepares for Cecafa *
Guests Zambia are among ten countries in Uganda to compete for the East and Central Africa Senior Challenge Cup (Cecafa Cup) which starts on Wednesday.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/africa/7803760.stm
................................
CRICKET
* South Africa bid to take top spot *
South Africa can eclipse Australia as the leading Test-playing nation with victory in the third and final Test which begins in Sydney on Saturday.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/cricket/7806101.stm
* Sri Lanka defeat spirited Tigers *
Sri Lanka win the first Test in Mirpur by 107 runs after bowling out Bangladesh for 413.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/cricket/7805625.stm
* NZ-Windies one-dayer washed out *
The first match of the one-day series between New Zealand and West Indies is abandoned because of heavy rain.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/cricket/7804195.stm
................................
RUGBY UNION
* Live: Magners League updates *
Latest from Cardiff Blues v Ospreys in the Magners League.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_union/live_scores/4776533.stm
* Scrum V - Cardiff Blues v Ospreys *
Live coverage from BBC Two Wales (UK users only).
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_union/7597869.stm
* Cardiff Blues 12-16 Ospreys *
The Ospreys beat Cardiff Blues 16-12 at the Arms Park in the all-Welsh derby in the Magners League.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/ospreys/7802001.stm
................................
RUGBY LEAGUE
* McDermott given Leeds youth role *
Former Leeds Rhinos prop Barrie McDermott is named as the club's new head of youth development.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_league/super_league/leeds/7804455.stm
* Giants can win trophies - Hodgson *
Huddersfield Giants new signing Brett Hodgson tips his new side for silverware next season.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_league/super_league/huddersfield/7805946.stm
* Bulls prop Lynch has neck surgery *
Bradford prop Andy Lynch will miss the start of the new season after undergoing an operation on a troublesome neck injury.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_league/super_league/bradford/7794666.stm
................................
TENNIS
* Sharapova hopeful for Aussie Open *
Maria Sharapova is "hopeful" of being fit to defend her Australian Open title despite withdrawing from an exhibition event in Hong Kong.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/tennis/7805689.stm
* Murray joins top two in Abu Dhabi *
Andy Murray will finalise his preparations for 2009 alongside Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in Abu Dhabi this week.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/tennis/7804170.stm
* Watson given Australian seeding *
Guernsey tennis player Heather Watson is guaranteed to be seeded at least 12th in the junior Australian Open next month.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/tennis/7797255.stm
................................
GOLF
* Woods faces 'arduous' route back *
Tiger Woods says he faces an arduous task to rebuild his game and is still unsure when he will be able to return after knee surgery.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/golf/7796698.stm
* Singh seals World Challenge title *
Vijay Singh takes advantage of stumbling finishes by Jim Furyk and Anthony Kim to win the Chevron World Challenge by one shot.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/golf/7795111.stm
* McIlroy & Rose book Masters spots *
Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy and England's Justin Rose are among 15 players to secure a place at next year's Masters courtesy of their world ranking.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/golf/7794844.stm
................................
MOTORSPORT
* Hamilton MBE a 'massive honour' *
Lewis Hamilton says he feels "humbled" after becoming an MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7805103.stm
* Billionaire Slim denies Honda bid *
Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim says reports he is one of four parties in talks about a possible rescue bid for the former Honda F1 team are "completely false".
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7801669.stm
* Toyota commits to F1 despite loss *
Toyota vows to continue running its Formula One team despite forecasting an annual loss of over £1bn.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7797903.stm
................................
FORMULA ONE
* Hamilton MBE a 'massive honour' *
Lewis Hamilton says he feels "humbled" after becoming an MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7805103.stm
* Billionaire Slim denies Honda bid *
Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim says reports he is one of four parties in talks about a possible rescue bid for the former Honda F1 team are "completely false".
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7801669.stm
* Toyota commits to F1 despite loss *
Toyota vows to continue running its Formula One team despite forecasting an annual loss of over £1bn.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/7797903.stm
................................
BOXING
* Boxer released early from prison *
Former world boxing champion Scott Harrison is freed from Barlinnie prison in time for the New Year.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7805785.stm
* WBA to investigate Valuev victory *
The World Boxing Association is to investigate Nikolay Valuev's victory over Evander Holyfield on 20 December.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/boxing/7804417.stm
* Hoy knighted in New Year honours *
Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy is knighted in the New Year Honours list, as Bradley Wiggins and Ben Ainslie become CBEs, Rebecca Adlington is appointed OBE and Lewis Hamilton becomes an MBE.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/front_page/7804849.stm
................................
ATHLETICS
* Cash-strapped Chambers may retire *
Disgraced British sprinter Dwain Chambers may have to retire in 2009 because of financial concerns.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/athletics/7806273.stm
* Hoy knighted in New Year honours *
Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy is knighted in the New Year Honours list, as Bradley Wiggins and Ben Ainslie become CBEs, Rebecca Adlington is appointed OBE and Lewis Hamilton becomes an MBE.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/front_page/7804849.stm
* World champion Jones to grace NIA *
World 60m indoor champion Lolo Jones has announced she will compete at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham in February.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/athletics/7805955.stm
................................
SNOOKER
* Murphy defeats Fu to clinch title *
Shaun Murphy earns a dramatic 10-9 victory over Marco Fu to win the UK Championship in Telford.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/7794708.stm
* Walden secures Masters wild card *
World number 35 Ricky Walden is handed a wildcard for January's Masters, completing the line-up for the Wembley event.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/7794575.stm
* Murphy beats Maguire in UK semi *
World number three Shaun Murphy sets up a UK Championship final against Marco Fu with a 9-4 win over Stephen Maguire.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/7794134.stm
................................
HORSE RACING
* Turner completes century of wins *
Hayley Turner becomes the first woman to ride 100 winners in a calendar year when Mullitovermaurice triumphs at Wolverhampton.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/horse_racing/7803894.stm
* Cheltenham out to beat big freeze *
Cheltenham's clerk of the course Simon Claisse is confident that racing will go ahead on New Year's Day despite the freezing conditions this week.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/horse_racing/7804511.stm
* Exotic Dancer lands Lexus success *
Tony McCoy rides Exotic Dancer to victory in the Grade One Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/horse_racing/7795479.stm
................................
CYCLING
* Olympian Hoy surprised by honour *
British Olympic hero Chris Hoy admits he is still coming to terms with receiving a knighthood in the New Year's Honours list.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/olympic_games/7802977.stm
* Hoy knighted in New Year honours *
Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy is knighted in the New Year Honours list, as Bradley Wiggins and Ben Ainslie become CBEs, Rebecca Adlington is appointed OBE and Lewis Hamilton becomes an MBE.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/front_page/7804849.stm
* Cavendish 'set for 2009 success' *
Mark Cavendish is set for even bigger things in 2009, according to Isle of Man cycling team manager Gary Hinds.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/cycling/7804480.stm
................................
OTHER SPORT...
* Barney edges through in thriller *
Former champion Raymond van Barneveld claims a sudden-death win over Ronnie Baxter to reach the last eight of the PDC World Championship.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/darts/7805169.stm
* Broncos sack long-serving coach *
Denver Broncos have fired head coach Mike Shanahan, who led them to two Super Bowl wins in his 14 years in charge.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/american_football/7805528.stm
* Jets, Lions & Browns fire coaches *
Eric Mangini of the New York Jets is one of three NFL head coaches fired after the regular season ended.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/other_sports/american_football/7803930.stm
................................
FUN AND GAMES
* Looking ahead *
Robbo Robson gives his predictions for the first six months of 2009
Full story:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/robborobson/2008/12/robbos_2009_predictions.html
* Quotes of the Year Part II *
Rio Ferdinand leads the way in the second instalment of the year's best lines
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/funny_old_game/7780066.stm
* Festive 40 quiz *
Part two of our quiz about the sporting year
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/funny_old_game/7792664.stm
................................
NORTHERN IRELAND
* Munster v Ulster (Sat) *
Ulster captain Rory Best is rested for the Magners League clash against leaders Munster in Limerick.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/ulster/7806299.stm
* Institute chasing striker Friars *
Newry City's Sean Friars is a target for Institute.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/irish/7804380.stm
* Ballymena suffer King injury blow *
Ballymena United could be without stand-in captain Stuart King for more than two months after the winger broke an ankle.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/irish/7802754.stm
................................
SCOTLAND
* Olympian Hoy surprised by honour *
British Olympic hero Chris Hoy admits he is still coming to terms with receiving a knighthood in the New Year's Honours list.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/olympic_games/7802977.stm
* Zaliukas considers Hearts future *
Hearts midfielder Marius Zaliukas says losing his appeal against Saturday's red card could lead to his departure from Scotland.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/h/heart_of_midlothian/7806267.stm
* Davies poised to land Forest job *
Nottingham Forest name Billy Davies as their preferred candidate for the club's vacant managerial post.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/n/nottm_forest/7805993.stm
................................
WALES
* Cardiff Blues 12-16 Ospreys *
The Ospreys beat Cardiff Blues 16-12 at the Arms Park in the all-Welsh derby in the Magners League.
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/ospreys/7802001.stm
* Scrum V - Cardiff Blues v Ospreys *
Live coverage from BBC Two Wales (UK users only).
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/rugby_union/7597869.stm
* Defoe and Bellamy on Spurs radar *
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp says he is interested in signing either Jermain Defoe or Craig Bellamy in January "if the price is right".
Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/sport2/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7806213.stm
................................
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