In praying directly to Jesus, the Twelve deviated from the previously established pattern of praying to the Father in the name of Jesus. Christ explained that they did this because I am with them (v. 22). Hereby, we learn that praying directly to Jesus is acceptable under certain conditions.
When Joseph Smith dedicated the Kirtland temple, his dedicatory prayer is initially addressed to the Father, but then he later addresses Jehovah, then the Father again. During one prayer, he switches back and forth from the Father to the Son several times (see DC 109). Although not according to the established pattern, this prayer was given to him by direct revelation and no one should question the propriety of its content. A careful study of this prayer demonstrates that the remarks are directed to Jehovah for two reasons, as an appeal for mercy, and because it was to be his house (DC 109:5). In both instances, the prayer addressed directly to Jesus emphasizes his role as the Mediator, the source of mercy for those who would, without him, be forever banished from his presence by the laws of justice.