Fr. Josh Miller on Nostr: We actually do, depending upon the sacrament in question. The only one that becomes ...

We actually do, depending upon the sacrament in question. The only one that becomes iffy is Reconciliation and Preaching, since faculties are specifically granted. But they're granted in perpetuity, until there is a need to withdraw them. I was granted this authority four bishops ago.

Something like baptizing or saying Mass is not directly derived from the Bishop, although it should be done in union with him. I could leave the Priesthood with no formal ties to my bishop and still celebrate a valid Eucharist, but it would be illegal (illicit) for me to do so. Would the matter be transformed, however? Absolutely.

Also, to make things even more complicated: ex-priests always retain the right to grant absolution and even to anoint in emergencies.