Final answer:
The understanding of the communion of saints has changed over church history, with the belief in the intercession of saints being prominent in the Middle Ages but diminishing in more recent times as contemporary Christianity focuses more on the direct relationship between individuals and God.
Step-by-step explanation:
The understanding of the communion of saints has evolved over church history. In the Middle Ages, saints were seen as intermediaries between individuals and an all-powerful God. They were believed to care for people and communities and could intercede on their behalf.
This belief in the intercession of saints gradually changed in more recent times as contemporary Christianity focused more on the direct relationship between individuals and God.