Charles Buford Lowell, after having served with the CIA and its clone the IRI for years, retired to the quiet resort community of Sunriver, Oregon. Charles had recently remarried, and his new wife and son were watching the newly elected American Pope John XXIV conduct midnight Christmas Mass on CNN television. Suddenly explosions brought down Michelangelos priceless dome over the Pope and the Catholic hierarchy. The Intelligence Research Institute was hired to take retribution, and Charles is recalled to duty against his wishes. The IRI has two contracts from agencies with opposing motives to destroy the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, and Charles was assigned the mission. The story develops in a complex background of adventure and intrigue. The author paints a picture of unforgettable characters with varying motives and beliefs. The surprise, imaginative ending will remind Bible readers of Armageddon.