“What about those in heaven we regard as “special” friends of God, so special we even pray to them? If only Christ is there [in heaven], why bother praying to the saints at all? Indeed, are they even “there”? Christ actually gave us the answer when he said in effect, “Those who honor me (or witness to me) on earth, I shall honor (or give witness to) in heaven”. This is the why and wherefore of the communion-of-saints.
“When we pray (or petition) the help of someone in heaven who we know has honored Christ on earth, our prayer goes directly to Christ who will honor that saint as He sees fit. Although every prayer is heard – and answered as God knows best – if Christ wants people on earth to honor those who especially honored Him, this honor may become known on earth by granting the petition or prayer, this is how it works. Christ always honors those who have honored Him, and certainly God has honored no one in heaven more than Mary – in her name, God grants everything! As for our caring for those on earth or those undergoing purgatory – or for that matter, caring for the whole of creation – we shall have Christ's same caring. And who, after all, cares more for us and all creation than the One Who created it?"
Essays on the Christian Contemplative Journey, "Mystical Theology and No Self", page 89
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