Feast of St. Joseph

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St. Joseph was a just man. He was chosen by God to be the foster-father of Jesus and the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was a man of deep faith and obedient to whatever God asked of him even if he did not know the outcome. When the angel came to him in a dream and told him about Mary and the child she was carrying, Joseph immediately took Mary as his wife. When the angel came back to reveal to him that his family was in danger, without delay he left everything he owned, all his family and friends, and took his family to a strange country. What an example he is for us! He was a man of complete trust in God. May we look to him for guidance as we daily face the challenges that life brings. May he who took such good care of his little family continue to watch over us and protect us from all harm to body or soul.

Memorare to Saint Joseph
Remember, most pure spouse of Mary, ever Virgin, my loving protector, Saint Joseph that no one ever had recourse to your protection or asked for your help without obtaining relief. Confiding, therefore, in your goodness, I come before you and humbly implore you. Despise not my petitions, foster-father of the Redeemer, but graciously receive them. Amen

God bless,
Sr. Carmen Botello, FMA
Principal

Melissa O'Connor-Arena

Art and design have always been a crucial part of my life. From coloring when I was a child to taking every art class I could in high school, it's the only thing I ever really wanted to do. I studied all aspects of art for 7 years and graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design in 2006. Since then I have worked as a freelance artist and writer, specializing in layout and album design. I also love photography and film.

I've been a professional designer since 2006 and have experience in all types of graphic design and the arts. My clients include DaVinci Roofscapes, Kayu, Terri Cole, Sheherezade, Kate Smith, Patti Green, Christine Gutierrez, and many more. I like to work with people from various fields which has given me a wide range of projects to apply my aesthetic. I have also written for Patch.com, as well as edited texts and books, so if you need writing services I can help you with that too! 

Besides graphic design, I also run a small stationery business that offers all kinds of invitations and other type of paper goods. You can view my shop and check out my blog on my website. I live and work in New York with my husband Dan, son Elliot (5.22.16), and 2 dogs. Both vegetarian and eco-consious, I do my best to live the most natural, organic life I can, and now create the same environment for my son. Besides design, my hobbies include photography, reading, writing, interior design, and cooking. I love music and used to play bass in a band when I lived in Jersey and of course I sing and dance every chance I get. Working with me is like teaming up with a friend, I am easy going, honest, and kind. My mission is to bring beauty to as many lives as I can through art and design and I look forward to working with you!