Alqosh, Nineveh Plain - The village of Alqosh has come together to honor the memory of the late Chaldean Bishop Mar Paulus Thabet through a deeply heartfelt musical tribute. The song, whose lyrics were written by Mr. Ghazwan Qas Younan and performed by members of the Alqosh Chaldean community (Mark Hedo, Rand Karema, Karmn Alnajar) celebrates the life, spirit, and enduring legacy of a shepherd who devoted his life to his people.
The dedication accompanying the song beautifully captures the essence of Bishop Thabet’s ministry:
"Love and humility are not weakness; rather, they are strength and self-confidence. From this strength, our late shepherd, Mar Polus Thebet, set forth toward winning the hearts of the people of Alqosh.
Today, we say that your name has been inscribed in letters of gold in the record of our long history, to be added to the other illustrious names that will remain in the memory of generations.
The song of our humble shepherd, ‘Ra‘ean Makkīkha,’ is a message of love and pride in you, as you dwell in your eternal realm. Though you have departed from us in body, your spirit will remain a source of light and inspiration for us." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRcZEB3RVaA
Mar Paulus Thabet, born Thabet Habib Yousif Al Mekko on 14 February 1976, dedicated his life to serving the Chaldean Catholic community in Iraq. After completing his studies at the University of Mosul, he pursued ecclesiastical formation in Rome, earning a theological degree from the Pontifical Urbaniana University and a licentiate from the Augustinianum Patristic Institute. He was ordained a priest in his hometown for the Archeparchy of Mosul on 25 July 2008.
During the Islamic State’s invasion of the Nineveh Plains in 2014, Bishop Al Mekko accompanied displaced Christians to Erbil, providing comfort and leadership amidst immense hardship. In September 2017, he returned to Karemlasch, resuming his pastoral duties while also teaching patrology and theology at Babel College.
Pope Francis confirmed his election as coadjutor bishop of Alqosh on 14 August 2021, and he was ordained on 22 October 2021. Bishop Thabet succeeded Mikha Pola Maqdassi as bishop on 8 October 2022, continuing his tireless work in rebuilding the spiritual and physical life of the Nineveh Plains communities.
Bishop Thabet passed away in Alqosh on 18 June 2025 at the age of 49, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, hope, and pastoral care. Pontifical charity Aid to the Church in Need highlighted his contributions, noting that he was “not only a close partner but a true companion in mission.” He played a central role in documenting the devastation of towns liberated from ISIS, restoring churches and homes, and encouraging families to return to their lands.
The song “Ra‘ean Makkīkha” now stands as a testament to the enduring love and respect of the Alqosh community for their shepherd. Through music, the village immortalizes his name among the illustrious figures of its history, ensuring that his spirit continues to guide and inspire generations to come.