Cardinal Point

There are cardinal numbers, cardinal compass points, cardinal virtues, and Cardinals in the Roman Catholic Church…none of which have anything to do with the bird or the color.

Cardinal (cardinalis) is the Latin word for hinge, like a door or gate turns or pivots on.

This week’s Gospel describes a cardinal point in the ministry of Jesus.

From Peter’s perspective, in one brief moment the whole thing takes a turn. And not for the better.