Catholics ask Mary to pray for them and honor her as the mother of Jesus. The adoration owed to God is different from the honor given to Mary. Her intercession always depends on Christ; it does not compete with his saving work.
A little more context
Think of the familiar request, “Please pray for me.” Catholic devotion extends that request to Mary, who lives in communion with her Son. The Church’s teaching keeps Jesus at the center: Mary is a creature redeemed by him, never a separate source of divine power. A Marian devotion should deepen love for God and obedience to him.
A practical beginning
If the language feels unfamiliar, begin with a simple request: “Mary, pray that I may follow Jesus more faithfully today.” Read the Church’s explanation before deciding that the word “pray” always means worship.
Source & further reading
Catechism 969–971: Marian intercession and devotion (opens in a new tab)↗Teaching summaries are introductions. Follow the linked Church source for its fuller context.