Why Forged?

"Forged" is in the past tense to honor those who came before us—and to look ahead to what's still needed today.

We're building on their legacy.

We're creating a gospel-centered, city-centric movement where the gospel is the foundation and city transformation is the goal.

Forging Leaders. Transforming Cities.

Birmingham, Alabama—often called the Magic City—rose from the ashes of the Civil War, fueled by the abundance of iron ore, coal, and limestone beneath its soil. Just as these elements forged steel that helped shape a nation, the city itself has forged leaders—Christian men and women who labored across lines of race, class, and denomination to bring unity, opportunity, and spiritual renewal to the people of Birmingham.

They were forged in the fire of faith and adversity. They crossed dividing lines and built churches, ministries, and movements that left a mark not just on this city, but on the world. The name “Forged” honors those who came before us—leaders who embodied both grit and grace—and calls us to rise up and meet the needs of Birmingham today and tomorrow.

What We Believe

At Forged, we are:

Gospel-centered and city-centric—Our foundation is faith in Jesus Christ and His crucifixion and resurrection. Our mission is the transformation of lives and our city.
Committed to holistic leadership – We equip leaders of good faith and good will who serve with integrity, collaboration, and wisdom.
Focused on transformation through leadership – When leaders are discipled, developed, and deployed, entire communities thrive.
Builders of sustainable change – We don’t believe in quick fixes. We’re here for long-term impact through deep partnerships.
Fueled by collaboration – We work across churches, nonprofits, businesses, and civic spaces to create collective good.

Inspired by 2 Corinthians 5:17–21, we believe God has given us “the ministry of reconciliation”—and the city is our mission field.

But we’re also deeply shaped by Titus 1:5, where Paul writes:

“The reason I left you in Crete was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders in every town.” (CSB)

In every city, there are things that have been left undone—unfinished work, broken systems, weary leaders, and hurting people. Paul’s answer to the unfinished work in Crete was clear: raise up godly leaders. That is our mission too. We believe Birmingham needs leaders in every neighborhood, every school, every organization, and every sector—leaders who reflect God’s character and carry His calling.