@b123400 What you are encountering is traditional Christianity (i.e., pre-Reformation). Catholics (and Eastern Orthodox) do not worship the saints, or Mary, or the Pope. They believe the saints can intercede on our behalf, and ask for their help in much the same way you would ask a friend to intercede on your behalf with someone. As for Mary, think of it this way: as the mother of Jesus, she occupies a special place. If you were going to ask a friend for help, would you not ask his mother to put in a good word for you?
This is all rather contentious, I know, but it's important to try to understand the beliefs behind the acts, which to a non-Catholic or non-Orthodox can look very odd.