Throughout the stages outlined above, the young woman discerns more clearly all that is involved in living a religious life and, together with the Congregation, will discover how her unique gifts and talents can best contribute to the mission of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. Although we also spend time in personal prayer and reflection, our life is lived in community, and we pray together and share all things in common. We also wear a distinctive habit as an external sign of the commitment we have made as religious women.