Congratulations to Susan Lonie, who today received the Archdiocesan Medal at St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh.

Susan, who is 100-years-old, was nominated for the award by Monsignor Jeremy Milne for her outstanding service, especially with RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults).

He said: "I am delighted to be able to commend you to the Archbishop for this medal and it is wonderful to see you here with family and friends gathered around you.

Susan Lonie, wearing her medal and holding the certificates, with family and Mgr Jeremy Milne and Archbishop Leo Cushley.

"I remember you from my first time here as an assistant priest, and recall how well you knew the Catholic Faith, how deeply prayerful you were and how you had that prayerful, knowledgeable presence.

"You only retired from doing the RCIA group at the age of 95 - that shows truly dedicated service.

"I think it is fitting to recognise your extraordinary service to the Cathedral Parish."

Archbishop Cushley congratulates Susan.

Susan was born in Leith in 1925 and was a member of Holy Cross Parish where she enjoyed learning about the saints.

While working in Edinburgh she attended daily Mass at the convent of the Sisters Of Marie Reparatrice before going to work.

In 1955 Susan was one of the Scottish representatives at The Beatification of British Martyrs in Rome and was part of the offertory procession and received a blessing from Saint John Paul the second.

In 1957 Susan moved with her family to her current home at Dryden Gardens and became a parishioner of St Mary’s Cathedral.

She took on many roles including cleaning, taking bookings for the hall and became a key member of the RCIA team.

She was one of the first Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist and also took Holy Communion to the sick and housebound for many years.

In 2010 Susan was a reader at the celebration of Mass during the visit of Pope Benedict in Glasgow.

Archbishop Leo Cushley presented the medal to Susan during midday Mass, and told her: "You are a constant friend of the Lord by your service".

The Archdiocesan Medal is awarded by the Archdiocese to recognise outstanding service to the Catholic Church. The medal was established in 1975 by Cardinal Gordon Joseph Gray.