"Welcome back, Eamonn, all is forgiven," was the message from churchgoers leaving Mass at Galway Cathedral yesterday.
The consensus among the parishioners was one of forgiveness; that the former bishop of Galway had served his penance and more than paid for his sins.
While some people leaving the cathedral at noon yesterday were reluctant to express their views on Dr Casey's imminent return to Beagh, Co Galway, most were eager to welcome him home.
"I think it's good that he's coming back; he has been away long enough. I do think he will be welcomed back by most people and he will be forgiven. Things are very different now than they were 14 years ago," said Rosmund Jennings from Galway city.
Connemara man Seán Griffin expressed his delight at the news of Dr Casey's return, saying that the only people who would not welcome him were people with no forgiveness.
"I pity how he had to carry that secret for 20 years; I think that was his biggest cross. It's now we should pray for him."
Nancy Sheehan from Newcastle said Dr Casey had been through a lot, and she hoped that the recent child-abuse allegation made against him would prove unfounded. She believed most people had forgiven him.
"The church has an awful lot to learn and be honest about; they need to change and to be responsible. The days of protecting priests are now gone; it's a different laity today."
Her companion, Maura Fahey from Newcastle, agreed Dr Casey was welcome back, saying, "who are we to judge him?"
Church-gate collector Rose Murphy said she was delighted to hear of Dr Casey's return and she felt people needed to move on.
"I think he has paid his penance; I don't even think he deserved it. I am delighted for him and I think most people feel that way."