The appeal to raise money for a new heating system for Heywood's landmark building came to an end over the weekend - and a series of last-minute donations helped campaigners to smash their fund-raising goal.
A total of £1,700 came in on Saturday and Sunday, during the finale of the Surround the Church With Pounds appeal.
Only a further £500 had been required to meet the total for a new heating system, meaning the church has been left with money to invest in future projects.
The Rev Matthew Carlisle, vicar of St Luke's and St John's in Hopwood, said: “It is absolutely fantastic news. We had a number of very sizeable and generous donations over the weekend and were overwhelmed.
“On behalf of everyone at the church I would like to give a massive thank you to all those who have helped us to raise the money.
“The appeal is ongoing really and we will be having discussions with church members to decide on future projects to spend any remaining money on.”
Last winter, the Grade II listed building struggled to stay open in freezing conditions and reduced services to a bare minimum.
It was feared the church would have to close due to the need for new heating and various repairs to the fabric of the building.
Problems came to light after a flood in the church cellar in spring 2009.
But Viridor Credits offered to give a grant of £20,000 for new heating as long as the church could raise a further £5,000 - and over the past two months the money has come flooding in through various fund-raising events and donations.
Members plan to hold a special service to thank those who have helped them.
The heating system should be installed in time for the winter. Tweet