AVON — A central Minnesota pastor is accused of having a sexual relationship with a parishioner he was counseling.

Forty-nine-year-old Charles Pelkey was charged Tuesday with one felony count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct. He appeared in court and was released from jail.

Pelkey is pastor at Avon Community Church. According to the complaint, he began counseling a married woman last November who wanted to “learn more about God.”

The complaint says the relationship eventually became sexual. The St. Cloud Times reports the woman ended the relationship in May.

Pelkey’s attorney, Justin Braulick, tells The Associated Press the allegations “are a complete fabrication of the truth,” and a vigorous defense is planned.

Pelkey also is a chaplain for the Avon Police Department. The department told the Star Tribune it had no comment.