1a. It's difficult being sensitive
TICKLISH
7d. Club about to give female support
BRASSIERE
8d. Sad mean-spirited mate left - fired
INSPIRED
16a. A religious point to follow in secular pursuit?
STEEPLECHASE
I get the parse, but why 'secular'?
12a. Revolving handle getting a note to emerge
EMANATE
Parses for the above please.