Sechnall of Ireland

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Sechnall of Ireland (372-447) or sometimes referred to as Secundinus, was, according to medieval tradition, a disciple of St Patrick and one of the first bishops of Armagh. The Latin name Secundinus, which was a common one across Latin-speaking parts of Europe, was borrowed into Irish vernacular as Sechnall. The Irish Annals, or Chronicles of Ireland, report that the bishops Secundinus, Auxilius and Iserninus arrived in Ireland to the aid of St Patrick in 439. In 441 Palladius was recalled to Rome to be examined by the newly elected Pope Leo I, leaving Secundinus in charge of the Church in Ireland. He became known as the first Christian bishop to die on Irish soil. Secundinus is said to have died in 447 or 448, aged 75.

Writings:

  • Hymn in Praise of St. Patrick 

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Quotes and Excerpts:

Sechnall of Ireland (Saint Secundinus)
“[St. Patrick] proclaims boldly to the [Irish] tribes the name of the Lord, to whom he gives the eternal grace of the laver of salvation; for their offenses he prays daily unto God; for them also he offers up to God worthy sacrifices” (Hymn in Praise of St. Patrick 13 [A.D. 444]).

Sechnall of Ireland
“Hymns, with Revelation and the Psalms of God [Patrick] sings, and does expound the same for the edifying of God’s people. This law he holds in the Trinity of the sacred Name and teaches one being in three persons” (Hymn in Praise of St. Patrick 22 [A.D. 444]).

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