Many men today are living in a constant state of shame, fear, and isolation. Research continues to confirm a growing epidemic of men who are friendless, directionless, and deeply disconnected. The reasons vary from fatherlessness, “church hurt,” to pornography, and a culture that has distorted biblical manhood. The way forward remains the same: intentional, Christ-centered community
At Sword and Shovel, we believe the path to healing is simple, though not easy Men must learn to share their fears, failures, and frustrations with others who are both gracious and truthful. When men step into spaces of honesty and confession, surrounded by others walking the same path, they find freedom and purpose.
2025 marks our first year as a fully supported ministry, and we are celebrating all that God has done! We are excited to report that Sword & Shovel has experienced consistent growth in the areas of recovery groups, pastoral coaching, and discipleship.
As we look toward 2026, we sense the Lord calling us to go deep and wide Deep in the lives of the men we are already walking with, and wide into new regions and churches, asking for help To meet this opportunity, our ministry's fundraising goal for 2026 is $230,000. These funds will cover current ministry expenses and allow us to hire a part-time executive assistant so I can focus more fully on coaching, training, and curriculum development.
Your prayerful and financial partnership allows us to meet men right in the middle of their pain with the truth and grace of Jesus.
Together, we can help more men live free, lead strong, and love well.
Sincerely,
CHRIS CANNON Founder & Executive Director
Plans For 2026
CONTINUED MINISTRIES
Weekly Men’s Studies (Online + In-Person) - Bible studies that create consistency and accountability
Recovery Groups - Ongoing weekly support for men overcoming sexual addiction
Pastoral Coaching - Providing one-on-one and group support for pastors locally, nationally, and internationally
Quarterly Excursions - Experiences that strengthen brotherhood and personal renewal
Pastors’ Gatherings - Quarterly opportunities for pastors to rest, connect, and be encouraged
NEW IN 2026
Ministry of Presence - Launched in 2025 with our first trial session, Ministry of Presence is a training that equips men to help men
Interest in this training exceeded our expectations In 2026 we will expand the program through new in-person and online sessions, including a one-day intensive to equip more men to walk faithfully with others in need.
Curriculum Development - Creating and publishing a 21-week “Biblical Manhood” study to equip churches nationwide.
New Partnerships - Our partnerships are helping expand the reach of Sword and Shovel Through Reignite Hope (reignitehope com), we will help adult students connect faith and purpose through teaching and discipleship, while our work with Into The Deep (intothedeep.org) in Oregon supports their mission to call men out of isolation through training and community. God continues to open doors with churches, businesses, and police departments, and we look forward to what He will do next
How to Donate*
2. Cash or check to Sword & Shovel
Please mail to:
Sword & Shovel 2550 Via Tejon Suite 2C
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Scan to Donate
What Men Are Saying About Sword & Shovel
“Sword and Shovel has been instrumental in developing our church family with healthy relational dynamics and missional strategies to reach people in our community Since our church plant started, God has used Chris to bless us in helping 15 people become Christians and/or get baptized at Epicenter Church. Sword and Shovel has also helped us develop leaders from within and given us coaching to guide us as we become a vibrant home for the tired, lonely, and hurting!”
David C.
“I met Chris through a friend this year during the lowest point in my life Chris welcomed me with open arms, non-biased He made me feel so comfortable during our coaching and counseling sessions. The advice he gave me and the reassurance of the love God has for me, the purpose behind his will made me pull out of my dark place, and start on the path to righteousness. From daily conversations to Zoom meetings to weekly visits at my home, Chris has put his personal life on hold to deal with mine I can’t express where I would be without Chris in my life or without his help in the past 7 months “
Derek P.
“Chris has come alongside me as an understanding ear who has experienced similar things I’m experiencing as a pastor. He has shown up for our church’s men’s ministry, participating in meetings with a seasoned, biblical approach Finally, Chris has served the church in crisis ministry I was involved in a marital situation that was threatened by sexual sin. Chris came alongside the husband with expertise that was beyond me and necessary in the situation. I’m thankful for the ministry of Sword & Shovel and Chris Cannon!”
Curt B.
*As a 501(c)(3), all donations to Sword & Shovel are tax deductible. EIN 93-2631741
