Sandra Jones, 63, was responsible for counting and banking donations made at St James and Emmanuel Church of England Church in New Brighton, Wirral.
Liverpool Crown Court was told she has pocketed up to £100 a week from the collection over a period of ten years.
In total, it is thought she stole £19,500, but the court heard she had paid the entire amount back as well as £6,000 to cover lost interest and forensic accountant's fees.
She was given a one-year suspended jail sentence after the church's vicar pleaded for her not to be sent to prison.
Rev Frank Cain told the court: "Many in our community have expressed their anger and I feel that anger.
"Some people don't have much to give but they gave generously. We are not a big church, we are not a wealthy church, so money is essential.
"If we had that stolen money it would have made a significant impact on our church and what it could have done in the community.
"Our trust has been completely betrayed. We have all had sleepless nights and felt unwell.
"As a Christian I acknowledge how important forgiveness is, but balanced by justice."
Jones pleaded guilty to the single charge of theft.