Boy’s Heaven Experience: Decades After ‘Heaven Is For Real
Colton Burpo, the child who inspired “Heaven Is for Real” with his account of visiting heaven during surgery, continues to share his exceptional story. Witness how this near-death experience at age three shaped his life’s mission. Now a worship pastor and electrician, Burpo reflects on meeting Jesus and deceased relatives, sparking profound discussions about faith and the afterlife.He’s now a husband and father, dedicated to living a life that honors Christ and guides others toward heaven, as revealed in this News directory 3 article. Discover how Burpo’s experiences continue to inspire as he shares his story through “Heaven Is for Real Ministries” and reveals his vision for the future. What’s next for this unlikely spiritual messenger?
‘Heaven is for Real’ Inspiration, Colton Burpo, Shares His Story
Updated June 01, 2025
Colton Burpo, whose account of visiting heaven after a near-fatal experience as a toddler inspired the book and movie “Heaven Is for Real,” continues to share his story. At almost 4 years old, Burpo underwent emergency surgery for a ruptured appendix, a condition doctors initially misdiagnosed.
Burpo recalls a supernatural experience during the ordeal. He believes he left his body, observing the medical team and his parents in separate rooms, his mother praying and his father fervently appealing to God. He says he then found himself sitting on Jesus’s lap,comforted by singing angels.
burpo’s description of meeting Jesus and deceased relatives resonated with many, prompting reflection on faith and the afterlife. Now 25, Burpo is married and a father, embracing his calling.
“He has called me to be a godly man, a godly husband, now a godly dad, and, when it comes to the supernatural — or what is waiting for us, I’m not afraid to meet Jesus again one day,” Burpo said. “I’m looking forward to that day.”
Working as both a worship pastor and an electrician, Burpo focuses on his present mission: living a life that honors Christ and guiding others toward heaven. he travels, sharing his experiences through Heaven Is for Real Ministries.
“My mindset right now is, instead of being so caught up in what’s waiting for me, I’m going to focus on the here and now,” he said. “I’m going to live my life in a way that honors Christ… I’m going to try and get as many people to come with me to heaven.”
While near-death experiences remain a topic of debate, Burpo’s story offers many an inspirational reminder of hope.
What’s next
Burpo plans to continue sharing his story and focusing on his roles as a husband, father, and worship leader, aiming to inspire others through his experiences and faith.