MADRID, Spain
The opening of the academic year 2014 – 2015 at Leo XIII Residence for graduate students, led by the Teresian Association, took place on October 22 and Judge Pablo Ruz participated.
After 8:00 PM, Judge Pablo Ruz walked into the grounds of Paul VI Foundation (owner of the residence), true to the style of naturalness that characterizes him. Everyone waited with anticipation and interest. His name appears frequently in the media because of the cases of great media coverage that are dealt at Court number 5 of the “Audiencia Nacional” of Spain. The hall on the campus of the Pontifical University of Salamanca was full.
The event began with a brief greeting by the Directress, Laura Moreno Marrocos. She mentioned important events in recent days that are reasons for hope in a disturbing local and global context: the Peace Nobel Prize for defending the rights of children to education awarded to Malala Yousafzai and to Kailash Satyarth; the beginning of the V Centenary of the birth of St. Teresa; the recovery of Teresa Romero from the Ebola disease; and the conclusion of the Extraordinary Synod of the Family; and the beatification of Pope Paul VI. Some residents participated in this event. The Director General of Paul VI Foundation, José Raga, accompanied the directress and the judge at the presiding table.
A graduate student preparing obtain a job from the State Bar Association, Fatima Diaz-Grande Rojo, introduced Judge Ruz and, when presenting his professional profile, she pointed out some personal characteristics such as his discretion, humility, seriousness and thoroughness in carrying out his work. About his private life, which the judge does not expose to the media, she mentioned his marriage to Ana, with whom he has four children.
When he took the floor, Pablo Ruz thanked the reference made to his family, "the most important part of my life and my ground wire," he said. The judge addressed the audience in a friendly and intimate tone, "feeling at home," in his own words. He is an alum of Veritas Teresian School in Madrid and of Comillas Pontifical University. He recalled the impact that certain experiences of his formative years had in his vocational choice and in his way of living, in particular the contact with clearly unjust social realities and the example of some teachers.
He continued by quoting some journalistic opinions with a critical view on the current state of justice in Spain. Without denying the need for changes, he explained the possibilities that exist when the practice of law is done seriously and with a humanizing and social meaning.
He encouraged the young people in formation, whatever their profession, to commit to the society they will serve. Especially, he addressed those preparing for public competition and aspiring to join in Public Service positons. He stressed the urgency of coherence between personal values and public service to improve the current state of society, which is overwhelmed by news of corruption in the political and economic system.
His reflections on law and its social implications showed the quality of his work and his commitment to exercising the profession of judge. He stressed the need for professionals in all fields to offer "a little more", a plus of honesty and transparency to society. After his reflection, he answered some questions from the participants.
The event continued with the presentation of a medal designed as a symbol of Leo XII Residence and a "musical moment" by pianist and organist Luis Mazorra, who played "Parade II” on the piano" and "Imperial Battle" of Cabanilles Juan Bautista (Algemesí, 1644 - + Valencia, 1712)
During the reception after the event, Pablo Ruz had pleasant conversations with residents and guests. Carmen Concejo and Laura Moreno awarded the medals to the group that was selected them this year.
Meaning of the Medal of Leo XIII Residence
It consists of a pendant with two spheres, a larger one made with olive wood, chosen for its austerity and spiritual connotation. On the back the name of the residence and the words "faith - knowledge," as a synthesis of the meaning Saint Pedro Poveda gives to every academic endeavor, are engraved. Over it there is smaller one in silver with the name of each resident who receives it engraved on the other side. Blanca Ortiz made the design and Francisco Treceño, who has chosen a beautiful grain and has treated each piece by hand, did the woodwork. Also the supporting chain of the pendant is handmade. The award looks very harmonious.
The residents who received the medals have completed at least two full academic years in the Residence and live their values, style and spirit promoting a good living together and fulfilling their commitment according to their chosen field of study.
Expansion and new facilities
Leo XIII Residence began its third year. Due to the increasing demand since the month of June, new facilities have been added to the main building, with the same type of services and similar characteristics.
The new addition is designed primarily for residents who prepare for access to MIR, FIR, PIR and EIR (healthcare field). It is also for students working on their master’s degrees and short stays. A second study room a large multi-purpose room with meeting spaces, spaces for cinema and ping-pong have been added.
Because of the addition, the residence has been able to serve about seventy more residents with different fields of study. The same style and atmosphere for living, as well as different spaces to serve different the needs, will be offered.
Members of the Teresian Association manage this educational project. Their main objective is to promote an experience of growth and maturity during the period of intense study, open to the present and to the fullness of life that is enriched by faith.
Web of Leo XIII Residence (where you can visit the new site).
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