But from this, you can see, it changes over time.
My take on this is what about those Catholics who lived before the change? Were their prayers less important? or if you look at the bigger picture, what about other Christians who dont believe this, are their prayers less important as well?
God showers his grace to everyone, and we may have different methods of going to him to let him know of our request. The only judge, i believe, on whats the right method is God. And I think, the bible did make it clear on how its done, and did encourage believers to “go boldly on the throne of grace” to pray, and not thru any other saints. He also clarified in the bible:
John 14:6
6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Romans 8:26
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
and many many more verses found in the bible who clearly intercedes for us.