VATICAN CITY - Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl of Washington said the Oct. 5-19 Synod of Bishops on the family came to a "real consensus" after two weeks of animated debate, and that its final report will serve as a solid basis for the world synod on the family in 2015.

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- President Barack Obama began the first work day of his second term Jan. 22 in prayer at a multi-faith service at the National Cathedral, where readings, prayers, songs and the sermon focused on the challenges of leadership and the need to face them with the bolstering of faith.