Todd Burpo, born on May 8, 1968 in Oklahoma, is a well-known religious author and pastor. He rose to fame as the co-author of the New York Times best-selling Christian book "Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back". The book chronicles the incredible experience of his son Colton, who claimed to have seen Jesus in Heaven during a near-death experience.
Before achieving literary success, Todd excelled academically as a summa cum laude graduate from Oklahoma Wesleyan University, with a focus on Theology. His passion for spreading the message of faith and hope led him to join Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Imperial, Nebraska as the church's pastor.
Aside from his religious duties, Todd has also been actively involved in his community. He has offered his time and service to the local fire department, demonstrating his commitment to helping others in times of need. Additionally, Todd became the chaplain for the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighter's Association, further solidifying his dedication to serving his community.
Family is a cornerstone of Todd's life, as he is happily married to Sonja Burpo. Together, they have three children named Colton, Colby, and Cassie. Todd's role as a husband and father has shaped his values and beliefs, influencing his work as a pastor and author.
In 2014, Todd's life story was brought to the big screen in the film adaptation of "Heaven is for Real". Actor Greg Kinnear portrayed Todd in the movie, bringing his remarkable journey to Heaven and back to a wider audience. Through his book and the subsequent film, Todd has touched the hearts of countless readers and viewers, inspiring them to explore their own faith and beliefs.
Todd Burpo's story is a testament to the power of faith, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring hope that Heaven is indeed real. His contributions to the world of Christian literature and his dedication to serving his community have made him a beloved figure in the world of faith and spirituality.