Father Ragheed Aziz Ganni (1972–2007) was an Iraqi Chaldean Catholic priest martyred for his faith in Mosul. Growing up in a Sunni-majority city, Ragheed felt a call to serve his ancient Christian community. He studied engineering and completed mandatory military service under Saddam Hussein, then pursued seminary studies. Sent to Rome for advanced theology, he was ordained a priest in 2001. Instead of seeking safety abroad during the Iraq War, Fr. Ragheed returned to his embattled parish of the Holy Spirit in Mosul. His parishioners faced constant threats, bombings, and intimidation by extremists, yet Ragheed faithfully celebrated Mass and administered sacraments, saying, “Without the Eucharist, the Christians in Iraq cannot survive”. On June 3, 2007, after Mass on Trinity Sunday, Fr. Ragheed and three deacons (Basman, Gassan, and Waheed) were confronted by armed militants. When ordered to close the church, Ragheed replied, “How can I close the house of God?”. Refusing to renounce his ministry, he and his companions were executed on the spot. Fr. Ragheed was only 35. His heroic witness inspired the Christian community worldwide; Pope Benedict XVI praised his sacrifice. In 2018 the Vatican approved the start of the cause for beatification for Ragheed and his deacons as martyrs. He is remembered for his radiant joy, love of soccer and youth work, and above all his unwavering devotion to the Eucharist even unto death.