Years of the Gregorian calendar, which is in use today, are counted from 1. Thus, the first century comprised the years 1 through 100, and the 20th century comprises the years 1901 to 2000. Therefore, the 21st century and the third millennium will begin Jan. 1, 2001.
However, since according to popular usage, the new century and millennium begin Jan. 1, 2000, the WN will not avoid references to that date as the beginning of the new century and millennium.
Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 2000