Spiritual Passage

Embark on an extraordinary journey with A Spiritual Passage, the true story of two brothers in their 70s who face personal demons, confront deep spiritual questions, and strengthen their faith while trekking the Appalachian Trail.

Despite growing up in the same impoverished household and enduring their father’s paralysis from polio, Ron and Rand's lives diverged drastically. Ron, deeply religious, held onto his faith even through the horrors of war and personal loss. Meanwhile, Rand, an irreligious man battling alcoholism and a troubled past, had long since lost his connection to any spiritual power.

Their paths reunite when Ron decides to hike the nearly 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail after the devastating loss of his wife of 45 years. To his surprise, Rand, burdened by his own physical and emotional challenges, insists on joining him. What follows is an inspiring story of healing, brotherhood, and spiritual growth as the two navigate the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, facing both external obstacles and internal struggles.

Richly illustrated with over 500 photographs from the trail, A Spiritual Passage brings the Appalachian Trail experience to life, capturing the rugged beauty of nature and the personal transformation it inspires.

This compelling narrative weaves together themes of faith, family, and resilience, showing how even the most divergent lives can be brought back together through a shared journey and a search for meaning. A Spiritual Passage is a tale of redemption, spiritual discovery, and the unbreakable bond between two brothers.

Perfect for:

• Nature enthusiasts
• Hikers and outdoor adventurers
• Readers of inspirational memoirs
• Those seeking stories of faith, personal transformation, and overcoming life's challenges

If you enjoy true stories of perseverance, spiritual growth, and the healing power of nature, this book is for you!

“A Spiritual Passage tells the true adventure of two Brothers in their 70s hiking the Appalachian Trail in a journal format. You will share their daunting journey, learning how they did it, their spiritual hurdles and experiences; and how they overcame their difficulties, grief, fear, doubt, and personal tribulations, including addiction. This is a tale of hope and inspiration overcoming life struggles and realities with 500 pictures and a lot of humorous renditions along the way!”

– Deacon Bo Davis

“A Spiritual Passage takes the reader into the heart of human struggle and survival on the Appalachian Trail (AT) and on the long and circuitous path to sobriety. Timmerman’s trailside journal entries and searching chapters about overcoming alcoholism will help readers understand what it means to survive, endure, and embrace faith in the midst of addiction and physical challenges. Timmerman writes with honesty and passion and in ways that will encourage readers to take risks and overcome obstacles in their lives. His colorful pictures of life hiking the AT with his brother (both in their 70s) and his invigorating stories of survival are sure to inspire readers of all ages and walks of life.”

– Dr. Eileen E. Schell, Professor of Writing and Rhetoric, Syracuse University