THE longest-serving member of the Diocese of Southwark's curial staff has been awarded the Papal cross "Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice".
Miss Thelma Misquitta was presented with the award by Archbishop Michael Bowen recently at a reception in her honour at Archbishop's House.
She joined the Diocesan Finance Office in August 1960 and was one of the first women to serve there. In 1974, she was appointed Diocesan Covenant Secretary, a post she still holds.
Miss Misquitta has also been an active member of her parish of Our Lady Queen of Peace, East Sheen, where she was a founder member of the Legion of Mary. She served as parish council secretary and continues to be a parish catechist and flower sacristan. She is a special minister of the eucharist.