The Righteous Philaret the Merciful, son of George and Anna, lived in the 8th century in the village of Amnia in the region of Paphlagonia. His wife, Theozva, came from a noble family, and they had children: a son Ioat and daughters Hypatia and Evanthia. Philaret, being a wealthy nobleman, did not rejoice in his wealth and, knowing of the sufferings of the poor, became renowned for his love of the needy.
After the attack of the Ishmaelites on Paphlagonia, Philaret distributed all his possessions to the poor, keeping only a few animals and his house. He steadfastly endured the reproaches of his wife and the mockery of his children, asserting that he had treasures of which they were unaware. The Lord rewarded him for his mercy by restoring his wealth after he had given away his last possessions.
Empress Irene was seeking a bride for her son and sent envoys throughout the empire, including to Amnia. Philaret and Theozva, upon learning of the visit, prepared their home, and neighbors brought food. The envoys chose Philaret's granddaughter Maria, who became the queen. Philaret, having returned to wealth, continued to distribute alms and serve the needy.
Having lived to the age of 90, he went to a monastery in Constantinople, gave away all he had, and peacefully departed in the year 792. After his death, a miracle occurred: a man possessed by a demon was healed by grasping the saint's coffin. Many miracles and healings were performed at his grave.
After Philaret's death, Theozva restored monasteries and churches in Paphlagonia that had been destroyed during the invasions.
