The Catholic Defender: The Tafoya Story live on Deepertruth Radio Tonight at 8:00 PM
Eric Tafoya was born in 1969 into the Santa Clara-Tewa Pueblo. Eric sparked an interest in pottery making at the age of 18, while watching his Aunt, Gwen Tafoya, and his Mother, Wanda Tafoya, coil their pottery. This inspired him to start making his own pottery. The Tafoya family has been making pottery since the early 1900’s, and this strong tradition lives within Eric.
Eric Tafoya is a devout Catholic convert and who has embarked on a lifelong journey of redemption after a deadly hit-and-run that made national headlines. Eric has made decisions that have changed his life forever, and is finally sharing his story about the biggest decision he has ever made: committing his life to Christ.
Eric specializes in the traditional hand coiled Santa Clara pottery with the classic black finish, usually etched or he will add sgraffito designs. Eric also adds the flare of a burned red brim and hues to his work. Eric digs up his own clay and sand from within the Santa Clara Pueblo sacred grounds. Eric cleans the clay, mixes, hand coils, shapes, etches, and fires his pottery, outdoors, with horse manure. He etches flowers, hummingbirds, and designs of feathers on his pottery.
Eric Tafoya(Traditional Urban Catholic 7)
Eric tafoya Rise up Catholic men enter into poverty
Eric’s past is gangs, drugs marking a life of rebellion with over 20 years spent in and out of prison. His actions caused harm and inflicted pain, something he openly acknowledges. However, his story also sheds light on the potential for personal transformation, even from the darkest of places.
We delve into how spirituality, specifically his devotion to the Catholic faith, served as a beacon of hope, guiding him towards a path of reconciliation, not just with society, but also with himself. Eric shares how he has channeled his experiences into serving others, dedicating his life to the betterment of those around him.
through Eric’s journey. We explore how he reclaimed his mental and spiritual health, found a wealth of purpose in service, and learned the power of self-love and forgiveness.
“God will give eternal life to those who convert sinners and bring them to the right path.” “Jesus loves hidden souls. A hidden flower is the most fragrant. I must strive to make the interior of my soul a resting place for the Heart of Jesus.”
St. Thomas Aquinas: "To convert somebody, go and take them by the hand and guide them"
“He loves, he hopes, he waits. Our Lord prefers to wait Himself for the sinner for years rather than keep us waiting an instant.”
“Our Lady…told us she would come and take Francisco to heaven, and she asked me if I still wanted to convert more sinners. I said I did.”
“Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song.”
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