Do you ever pray for others? Do you ever ask anyone to pray for you? The Catholic prayer known as the "Hail Mary" says (in part) "Mary . . . pray for us sinners." It is a request to Mary for her prayer on behalf of the petitioner. In that sense, it is no different from you asking someone to pray for you or your intentions. Actually, Steve, it IS different.
Scripture tells us not to involve ourselves with "vain, repititious prayers" like your "Hail, Mary". Scripture tells us that we are to address OUR FATHER, not some secretary, in our prayer sessions. Thirdly, Mary is dead, no matter what some guys in Rome dictate. Scripture nowhere tells us to seek her or to do anything more than acknowledge Jesus's mom as blessed.
I am also blessed! I have His indwelling Holy Spirit to guide me into all truth.
The Truth is not found in much of the rat poison* called Roman Catholicism...
*Rat poison usually consists of good wholesome food (corn, etc), into which chemicals are introduced that will produce death. Usually, it is 90% good stuff, with 10% poison. IMHO, the Roman Catholic cult has taken it to a higher level, and if administered per their requirements, will surely bring about a spiritual death.
After all, God is a Spirit, and those that worship Him, must do so in Spirit and in Truth!
We are told to approach the Throne boldly, not hide under some mythical queens dresses!
Do you ever pray for others? Do you ever ask anyone to pray for you? The Catholic prayer known as the "Hail Mary" says (in part) "Mary . . . pray for us sinners." It is a request to Mary for her prayer on behalf of the petitioner. In that sense, it is no different from you asking someone to pray for you or your intentions. There is no record of the early church praying to Moses or David for intercession ... That is because scripture tells us that "the veil was rent"(Mat 27:51) that separated men from God, and that we can now "boldly approach the throne of God"(heb 4:16)
Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith. (Hebrews 10:19–22)