In Cyprus there is a traditional Cake for Lost things called Fanouropitta or (St Fanourios cake), this is an offering dedicated to Saint Fanourios, (fah-NOO-ree-os) the Greek Orthodox patron saint of lost items. You call on Saint Fanourios when you need to find something. The wish for help made when cutting the Fanouropita cake can be for anything at all – good health, happiness, finding a job, lost possessions or people. This cake is traditionally made on the eve of Saint Fanourios’ Name Day every year, on August 27. The cake is brought to the church of Saint Fanourios where the priest blesses it during a special ceremony. Afterwards, the cake is cut and everyone shares but before doing so, they must ask God for the Saint’s mother’s sins to be forgiven. Traditionally for this to work, the cake should be given to seven married women, they must only have been married once. Widows or divorcees are acceptable.
This cake is suitable for those fasting for Lent in preparation for Easter as it contains no eggs, milk or butter. Fanouropita can be made at any time of the year if someone wishes to ask Saint Fanourios to find something or someone for them.
Traditionally Fanouropitta has 7 ingredients but some people use 9.
