No, I'm suggesting he never hike the trail NOBO always SOBO. He should start the trail at Neels Gap and hike to Springer. Then hitch up to Hiawasse and hike back to Neels Gap and so on. After he seeing the same people multiple times he can space the flips out as needed. Remember there are a lot of quitters early on that may need some jesus juice to help them continue.
With all the money he'll have he should simply travel the trail up and down and give food and rides (assuming he has a churchmvan). I'm 100% sure he would be much more appreciated and hikers wouldn't mind his sales pitch if it came with trail magic.
I'm a full blown heathen and I enjoy conversations with religious folks when they are respectful to me. Others have mentioned banning religion/politics on the trail. If you are easily upset or offended by these subjects maybe you shouldn't be on the most popular trail on the East Coast. Grow up.