The spirit of Christmas did not deter a thief from taking about $8,000 and checks from a New Jersey church.

Police and church officials say a collection basket was placed at the altar of the Church of the Guardian Angels while Monsignor James Moran went to the front door to chat with parishioners.

About 20 minutes later, he found that only a few coins were left in the basket, reports the Associated Press.

"I don't know how someone does this and lives with their own conscience," says Moran.

He informed parishioners of the theft and advised them to cancel their checks. The money was intended to help the church pay bills.

"I told the people God will get the person," Moran says.