First of all, congratulations on your appointment, could you explain to us what it means to be a University Chaplain and how it translates into university life?
It is an opportunity. The Chaplaincy is formed by a group of priests who spiritually accompany the employees, professors and students. The figure of the University Chaplain is in charge of watching over the chaplains, knowing how they are doing, listening to their proposals to see how we can improve, always allowing myself to be guided by the Holy Spirit.
2.- In your daily life, has anything changed with this appointment?
Concretely, I am still the same: I am chaplain of the School of Architecture, CM. Goimendi and I live in Torre II de Belagua.
3.- What are you most excited about in this new stage?
That both students and professors discover this service. Having chaplains here is a luxury that does not appear in any ranking, but that contributes a lot to university life.
What is the role of the Chaplaincy in the life of the students?
It is a service open to all, not only for those who are closer to the Church, a space of trust, where any university student can come to talk or ask for guidance. The Chaplaincy seeks to welcome, listen and always be available, as Christ did.
5.- You are a priest, but you studied architecture. If your life were a building, what style would you have?
I like the diaphanous spaces of Japanese architecture, their way of working with light. They are impressive.
6.- As an architect, what tool do you think the University should have?
Good light and open spaces to meet. And also quiet places, such as the Shrine of Our Lady of Fair Love on campus.
7.- Is it your favorite corner?
Without a doubt.
8.- A song that always accompanies you?
Don't give up, by Peter Gabriel.
9.- Omelette with or without onion?
With onion and plenty of salt.
10.- Southern sun or northern cold?
I am divided. I'm from the north and I love it, but Andalusia made me fall in love when I was there. Santa Teresa said that Andalusia either expels you or makes you fall in love; I fell in love with it.
11.- Barça or Madrid?
I've been a Barça fan since I was a kid, although at home everyone is a Madrid fan. In fact, one of my brothers forbids giving Barça-related gifts to his children.
12.-Are you more of a flow person or more of a calendar person?
I would love to have everything written down, but in the end I flow.
13.-Coffee, tea or colacao?
Coffee, 100%.
14.- Quick sketch or perfect model?
I identify more with the quick sketch: simple, spontaneous and open to conversation.
An architect to inspire you and a saint to guide you?
Architect, Javier Carvajal; and saint, St. Josemaría.
16.- A corner of the world you would like to visit?
Two: Japan and Chile.
17.- A word that defines you?
Open.
18.- To disconnect, mountain or beach?
Mountain.
19.- A detail that always brightens up your day?
The improvised after-dinner conversations that are prolonged with laughter.
20.- The University of Navarra is...
My alma mater.