Mother Macaria (†July 13, 2026) wrote this canon in honor of the “Seeker of the Lost,” the patron of her monastery’s main chapel, and to support the community’s youth outreach. While the canon does not focus explicitly on racial reconciliation, the Fellowship includes it among our prayers because of its powerful message that no one is beyond redemption. The text also intercedes for those experiencing discrimination, poverty, and the many challenges common to our inner cities, making it truly a prayer for our times.
The History of the Icon
The icon of the Mother of God, “Seeker of the Lost,” received its beautiful title from a famous miracle in sixth-century Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).
A cleric and church steward named Theophilus was unjustly deposed from his office. In his bitterness, he sought out a sorcerer and recklessly sold his soul to the devil to be restored to his former honors.
Once restored, however, Theophilus came to his senses and was filled with remorse. He fasted and prayed before this icon for forty days and nights, begging the Mother of God to rescue him from his terrible sin. Seeing his deep repentance, she interceded fervently for him, eventually appearing to Theophilus to assure him of her Son’s forgiveness and to return the contract he had signed in blood.
Theophilus confessed his sin publicly in church, where the bishop burned the demonic contract. Shortly thereafter, Theophilus died in peace and was eventually recognized as a saint.
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