Loading .bash_profile under X-Windows

[Kiffin Gish]

How can I get terminal under X-Windows to load my .bash_profile (and any
other stuff) that is usually loaded when at the initial prompt?

A more general question might be: what files (.profile, .login, whatever)
and in what order are loaded every I login via a shell and how are these
settings propagated up through Gnome desktop?

Thanks a lot in advance. 

-- 

Kiffin Rex Gish
Gouda, The Netherlands