[GOP_Proud]

I don't see it as the same thing at all. I see asking my friends to pray about something as no more than praying myself.

Though I am Protestant I have a family of cousins that I grew up with who are Catholic. I spent the summer months on their farm and was required to attend mass with them while I was there. Though we didn't discuss religion very much, when we did, I was always left with the impression that Mary had a seat of high regard with them...more than me. My goodness, the most famous prayer, after the Lord's, is the hail Mary. That's what I mean. While I respect her for being the mother of Jesus, she was a "mere" mortal as I am. I don't think she has any MORE influence than I. That's the difference.

In the Catholic church, Mary is not taught as divine, true. I know that from my own experience. However, she does hold a very special place above you and me. That's where I beg to differ.

[TheGeezer]

Mary is also our mother, the mother of the Church.

Well, be at peace, in any case. I'll ask God's mother to pray for you. You see, it's nice to have friends close to the Highest Possible Place. :>)

[jwalsh07]

While I respect her for being the mother of Jesus, she was a "mere" mortal as I am. I don't think she has any MORE influence than I. That's the difference.

And yet for some strange reason God chose Mary to birth Jesus and not you. Why to you suppose God did that?