In order to not commit idolatry, do you have to keep mentally denigrating saints?

[FrostArcana]

By denigrating I mean constantly qualifying statements you say about them in prayer. Is it possible to never do this and venerate them freely without accidentally committing idolatry? Can one just say “Mary save my soul” or “Joseph be merciful to me” or “Mary answer my prayer” without thinking of how it goes through God and all the details? Every time I want to do this I feel I might accidentally do something wrong making mentally unqualified statements, but when I qualify it, it is annoying and I feel like I’m not giving them right honors.

 

[JerryZ]

Are you offering a sacrifice to these Saints you ask for help to?
If not then you are not committing idolatry.
Have you heard the expression “He sacrificed everything to achieve political status” or money or any other material object.
Hope this helps.
Peace!

 

[ProdglArchitect]

I’m pretty sure God knows your intentions with this. what you’re describing is something I find myself doing regularly, but I don’t think it actually matters. As long as you don’t intend to worship the saints or circumvent God then I’m sure you’re fine.

 

[John_Martin]

Simply let your first words be, “Saint [So-and-So], please pray for me.”
Then talk to the saint, explaining what is amiss.

That first line will keep the explanation in order.