Ian O'Hara was accused of taking the money from St Thomas' in Longford, Coventry to pay for a car, a cleaner for his house and football season tickets.
When he was first found out an agreement was made for him to repay the money and police were only informed when further discrepancies were found.
He admitted three counts of fraud by abuse of a position of trust but has been bailed as authorities determine how much money has been refunded.
It's claimed two thirds of the funds have been returned.
Following the adjournment to the case, Mr O'Hara was told could still face a prison sentence.