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In December of 1996, the members of Heaven's Gate threw a Christmas party.

For a group that shunned materialism and human attachments, it was a surprisingly festive affair.

They decorated the house with garlands, lights, and stockings, wrapped presents, baked identical cakes, one for each member.

In the middle of the party, a follower who had left the group for a time suddenly returned,

perhaps an even greater gift than the ones tied with bows. Everyone hugged him, welcoming him back.

They held a talent show. Members showed off small tricks like juggling.

They sang together as a choir,

conducted by Marshall Applewhite,

including a song that they'd written about Heaven's Gate.

It was a happy day,

smiles and laughter all around.

But just three months later, they were gone.

Hi, I'm Greg Polson.

And I'm Vanessa Richardson.

And this is our final episode in a special anniversary series on Heaven's Gate, presented by

cults.

We're taking a deep dive into the so-called UFO cult to try to understand who they were,

what they believed, and what caused their tragic end 25 years ago.

...