Men of Purpose: Rediscovering Masculinity Through The Forge

Small Town Big God

In this episode of 'Small Town Big God', Mikel Collins introduces Tom Calton, the founder of The Forge – a ministry aimed at discipling men and promoting biblical masculinity in Rutherford County, North Carolina. The episode covers the origin and growth of The Forge, starting from small group gatherings to significant ministry events. Key discussions include cultural changes, the fatherless epidemic, pornography, and economic challenges. The segment emphasizes the importance of men engaging in masculine environments and the vital role of father figures. Personal anecdotes highlight the deep spiritual impact on men's lives through transformative experiences at Forge events. The narrative includes the story of a women's retreat that inspired The Forge’s creation and underscores the importance of community, maintaining traditional masculine skills, and the intergenerational transfer of wisdom. Listeners are invited to join Forge meetings and to their annual Christmas Tree Bonfire event.

The Forge Website

00:00 Introduction to Small Town Big God

00:56 The Birth of The Forge Ministry

02:00 Impact of Wild at Heart

04:31 Joining Forces with New Wilderness Adventures

07:12 The Power of Masculine Fellowship

10:04 The Need for Masculine Environments

18:58 The First Forge Event

21:31 Finding the Right Pace

25:40 Crafting and Forging: The Art of Damascus Steel

27:06 Intentional Shaping: Becoming Who We're Meant to Be

27:47 The Importance of Intergenerational Community

29:43 The Epidemic of Loneliness Among Men

31:05 The Impact of Pornography on Masculinity

33:15 The Decline of Masculine Skills and Its Consequences

42:27 The Forge: Reviving Biblical Masculinity

44:14 Join The Forge: Community and Events

45:11 Conclusion and Call to Action