Revd David Davies was arrested on suspicion of beating a woman, before driving off in his Jaguar car.
When police stopped and breathalysed him, Mr Davies was almost three times over the legal drink-drive limit.
He is yet to enter a plea in court, and has been granted bail. He's been asked not to contact three women and not to go to the vicarage in Monterey Close, Torquay.
Mr Davies became the vicar of Torre and Cockington parishes in Devon in October last year.
He was sacked in September this year.
In a statement on behalf of the Diocese of Exeter, Venerable Clive Cohen said: "The diocese has been working to support him and his family pastorally and practically throughout this period.
"We were very grieved when the police informed us of the charges against him.
"We do not condone the alleged actions in any way.
"We are continuing to offer pastoral care to his family.
"My prayers are for David's family and David himself in this immensely difficult time. I would ask that they be given privacy now."
"I also pray for the parishes of Torre and Cockington."
Davies was due to appear in Torbay magistrate's court this week, but was excused after his solicitor submitted a letter explaining his intended absence.
He next appears in court on December 8.