Father Thaer Saadallah Abdal (1975–2010) was a young Syrian Catholic priest in Baghdad, Iraq, who, along with Fr. Wassim Boutros and 46 lay faithful, was killed during a terrorist siege of Our Lady of Salvation Church. On October 31, 2010, during Sunday evening Mass, armed extremists stormed the church and took the congregation hostage. Fr. Thaer was celebrating Mass when chaos erupted. With heroic courage, he elevated the Gospel book and implored the attackers, “In the name of Christ, leave them and take me!” – offering himself to save his parishioners. He was immediately shot, becoming the first to die in the massacre. His associate, Fr. Wassim, likewise sacrificed himself trying to shield his flock. The attack claimed 48 lives, including children, but Fr. Thaer’s selflessness shone as a Christ like act. He was only 35. Pope Benedict   XVI referred to the victims as “martyrs” and their cause for beatification is underway, collectively known as the 48 Servants of God of Our Lady of Salvation. Fr. Thaer’s memory is cherished by Iraqi Christians as a symbol of pastoral love and bravery. He literally laid down his life for his sheep, reflecting Jesus’ words, “I am the good shepherd… the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11).