It's after Fr John Reid avoided jail last week in Durham Crown Court, admitting the crime and apologising for his actions. He was given a suspended 18-month jail term.
Reid defrauded St Cuthbert's Church in Chester-le-Street, Durham, after joining the congregation in 2009.
Durham Crown Court heard he spent much of the money on a housekeeper, Gillian Leddy, who he fell in love with. He also spent the money on her children.
Expenditures included helping to finance businesses and a set of cutlery which cost around £1200.
According to the Daily Mirror, the congregation of St Cuthbert's is split on whether Fr Reid should remain as their priest.
The church recently held an emergency meeting where the extent of Reid's intention to defraud the congregation was disputed.
It falls on Rt rev Seamus Cunningham, Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle, to decide whether the priest should continue in ministry.
The Diocese said: "Father John Reid withdrew voluntarily from public ministry during the course of the investigations, and this has remained in place throughout the court proceedings.
"The Right Reverend Séamus Cunningham, Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle, has been aware of the situation throughout, and arranged for another priest and Diocesan officials to provide pastoral care and support for the parishes of Chester-le-Street and Sacriston, as well as for Father Reid.
"The Diocese has cooperated fully with Durham Constabulary throughout the proceedings."
