properties file in WAR

["Herbers, Joe" <joe.herbers@xxxxxxx>]

I'm trying to create a WAR file to deploy an app.  One class references a resource file called message.properties via the following code.  Where in the WAR should/can I put the properties file?  In the root?  I think it needs to be in the classpath, so I do I need to put a CLASSPATH statement in Manifest.mf or can I put it somewhere that will automatically be in the classpath?  Thanks.

            bundle = ResourceBundle.getBundle("Message",userLocale);