Domhnach Sechnaill

County Meath

The Given Name Laughlin

In my case the given name Laughlin refers directly to Secundinus, a 5th century saint.
Secundinus flourished in the 5th century, or in Gaelic Sechnall, today in Irish, Seachnall who founded and became the patron saint of Domhnach Sechnaill, County Meath who went down in medieval tradition incorrectly, as a disciple of St. Patrick. He was one of the first Bishops of Armagh. This tradition appears to be invented by Armagh historians long after his life ended in favor of embracing Patrick. Secundinus is more likely to have been a separate missionary, possibly a companion of Palladius. I seem to recall he is named for another saint, My ancestor is Laughlin, taken to mean literally & specifically "Servant to Secundinus" as it has been passed from every generation since the coming Palladius in the 5th century is important. Secundinus in the eyes of this researcher postulates that Secundinus' namesake is likely Secundus of Asti who died circa 119 CE and is venerated as a martyr and saint. His feast day is generally celebrated on March 29.

Until the 15th century it was celebrated at Asti on March 30, but it is now celebrated there on the first Tuesday in May. He was a historical figure who was beheaded at Asti under Hadrian. He is said to have been a patrician of Asti and a subaltern officer in the imperial army. It is known that a church was dedicated to him in the area as early as the 9th century.

Later legends made Secundus a member of the Theban Legion. A more elaborate legend states that he was a young man of noble lineage who visited the jails of Asti. Secundus was a friend of Sapricius (Saprizio), prefect of the city. They traveled together to the city of Tortona, where Secundus met the city's first bishop, Marcian, who was later martyred under Hadrian.

Secundus' meeting with Marcian influenced his decision to become a Christian; his meeting with Faustinus and Jovita further influenced his conversion. His friend Sapricius attempted to make him abjure or renounce his newfound faith. Secundus refused, and was tortured and decapitated for not choosing Rome's view.