Aileen Schlef

I am an active member of the National Press Club working on a new series with the Communicator and Events Teams. Photography has always been a major part of my storytelling career as a freelancer and communicator. I am now president of Creative Alliance Communications with clients that range in focus from disparities in healthcare, U.S. Latino/Hispanic issues of diversity and inclusion, and banking.

Electronic images

Moment of Joy

Fr. Samuel's Moment of Joy and Pride with Abbot James
Fr. Samuel knew that he wanted to be a priest when very young and began his studies in early childhood. The challenging formal and practical programs of priestly formation last many years. The shared joy and rich meaning of ordination are reflected in Fr. Samuel's and Abbot James Wiseman's faces.

St. Anselm's Abbey located at 4501 South Dakota Ave., NE about a mile from Ft. Totten metro, is our little secret: an oasis of peace and beauty about one mile from Catholic University where many monks have served on the faculty. It is a Benedictine monastery that follows the Rule of St. Benedict, seeking God as a community of love, worship and service to others. Visitors are welcome, and can arrange personal or small group retreats. Hospitality is a guiding value of this monastery home surrounded by 42 acres of trees with evening visits from deer who sometimes traverse the land.
The Abbey conducts St. Ansel's Abbey School a short walk across the property. Several monks teach at the school which is known for its rigorous curriculum and the excellent education provided for boys from grade six through twelve. The Oblate community of laypersons is actively involved in many of the activities at the Abbey.

More about this image: stanselms.org

Ordinand Samuel Springuel

Ordinand Samuel Springuel lies prostrate before the Most. Rev. Michael Fisher, Auxiliary Bishop.
A budding photographer takes his place during the solemn ceremony before Most Rev. Michael Fisher, Auxiliary Bishop of the diocese, family, friends, and the monastic community.

According to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, to lie prostrate symbolizes the ordinand's unworthiness for the office to be assumed and his dependence upon God and the prayers of the Christian community.

Serious Times

Serious Times with Shared Lighter Moments

Bishop's Blessing

The Bishop's Blessing

Print photos

Moment of Joy

Fr. Samuel's Moment of Joy and Pride Shared with Abbot James
Fr. Samuel knew that he wanted to be a priest when very young and began his studies in early childhood. The challenging formal and practical programs of priestly formation last many years. The shared joy and rich meaning of ordination are reflected in Fr. Samuel's and Abbot James Wiseman's faces.

St. Anselm's Abbey located at 4501 South Dakota Ave., NE about a mile from Ft. Totten metro, is our little secret: an oasis of peace and beauty about one mile from Catholic University where many monks have served on the faculty. It is a Benedictine monastery that follows the Rule of St. Benedict, seeking God as a community of love, worship and service to others. Visitors are welcome, and can arrange personal or small group retreats. Hospitality is a guiding value of this monastery home surrounded by 42 acres of trees with evening visits from deer who sometimes traverse the land.
The Abbey conducts St. Ansel's Abbey School a short walk across the property. Several monks teach at the school which is known for its rigorous curriculum and the excellent education provided for boys from grade six through twelve. The Oblate community of laypersons is actively involved in many of the activities at the Abbey.

More about this photo: stanselms.org

Ordinand Samuel Springuel

Ordinand Samuel Springuel lies prostrate before the Most. Rev. Michael Fisher, Auxiliary Bishop.
A budding photographer takes his place during the solemn ceremony before Most Rev. Michael Fisher, Auxiliary Bishop of the diocese, family, friends, and the monastic community.

Story behind the image According to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, to lie prostrate symbolizes the ordinand's unworthiness for the office to be assumed and his dependence upon God and the prayers of the Christian community.

More about this photo: stanselms.org