I have been searching for resources to learn (Java) Web Services. Although I have found a lot of resources and tutorials on JWS, I am confused with the version numbers, the abbreviations and Metro. Plus the last update to Metro was in 2008. Is it a worthwile thing to learn?

I wanted to learn how to access Web Services, since an upcoming project is about accessing one. I have some experience with OAuth on Twitter(using code available).

Things I know about the project:
I have to access a Web Service.
Java is the preferred platform to use(Although I know I can use any).
Axis can be used to access the Web Service(I have never used Axis)

I have a meeting scheduled to learn more, but I sure don't want to look silly since I am no Java expert, have never created or accessed Web Services using Java.

My Questions:

1.Can someone point me to a tutorial which will help me learn how to access a already running Web Service (Preferably SOAP(?), not REST. It's XML based)
2. Will you recommend using PHP or Python to do the work of accessing the web service?

I am expecting a lot of nay saying, but I hope I get some answers too. I will clarify things if needed.