Why do they do that?

[John Paul]

I see pictures of nuns or priests in there cells and they have a crucifix on there pillow. Does anyone know why they do that?

Here should be a picture

[salveregina10]

That is a great question!  In our Congregation and our Benedictine Order, we are taught to keep death daily before our eyes.  This particular custom does that for us, we see our rest in the light of Christ's redemptive sacrifice and our future goal of eternal life with Him.  Many of our Sisters tend to use their mission cross for this purpose, also to keep us mindful no matter where the day takes us, our missionary service is our way of doing God's will.  

[John Paul]

Thats cool.

[sr.christinaosf]

It's a good reminder to us.

Little reminders are wonderful to bring our minds back to Jesus.

I actually was so touched by one of these reminders that I wrote a little piece about it last winter: https://ourfranciscanfiat.wordpress.com/2016/02/27/blessed-with-little-reminders/

[graciandelamadrededios]

Discalced Carmelite Nuns pins their profession crucifix on their pillows.  I am guessing this is the same crucifix that they pin under their scapulars.

[John Paul]

Does it stay there when they sleep to?

[graciandelamadrededios]

21 hours ago, John Paul said:

Does it stay there when they sleep to?

I am guessing that the questions is for me???

I am sure if all OCD communities do this now but it must have been a regular custom before Vatican II - before sleeping, they pinned their crucifix on the side of their pillows.