I'm a convert. Converted to Catholicism in 2017-2018 from Baptist. Here's my take on Mary: we love her "Yes" to God. She's an example of doing God's will; "Have it be done unto me according to the word". It's inspiring.
Since we're all connected through Christ who transcends death, we ask saints and Mary (all in Heaven) to pray for us. We are asking her to speak to God on our behalf since those in heaven are closest to God. Yes pray for yourself… you should be. Can you pray in heaven? Well Saints pray in heaven. It's in King James in Revelations. Are they worshipped? No. Their actions, life they lived are a testimony.
Remember how much John the Baptist loved God and Christ, his cousin? Matt 11:11, "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." Is he not a model of what we need to be? Inspiring on how to live ones life are the Saints and Momma Mary.
Sauce on saints for KJV
https://sarata.com/bible/verses/about/saints.html
We could talk about sola fide or sola scriptura but what is more fascinating, as a convert, is that my eyes have been opened to the love in Catholicism and dedication to Christ.
Hail Mary Full of Grace (God's Grace, favor, gifts)
Luke 1:48
For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
So, the Blessed Virgin Mary is someone to show respect to as our God showed her favor. Out of all the women throughout time… God, the Father chose her. We are honoring that decision and call her Blessed because of the fruit of her womb, Jesus and before that her Yes to God.
Additionally, why would Christ's church, you know, the one he handed Peter (Keys of the kingdom, defend my flock, etc) be attacked for almost 2 thousand years? Wouldn't it make sense that Satan and demons want you to turn away from the OG faith? Wouldn't they attempt to infiltrate? (FBI are, were attacking traditional Catholics…. why?) If they didn't they'd be stupid not to try constantly… They have the time. Wouldn't it make sense the first church, having more books in it, more teachings be accurate? Or is it some dudes in Amsterdam ( Baptist origins 500 years ago) that got it right by removing said books?
Remember, God is NOT a feeling.