Some traditions of the Catholic Church reflect a rather narrow focus on gender roles. For example, I don't understand why women can't be priests. To me, it seems like a tradition that comes more from a patriarchal system than from anything truly spiritual. And of course, while I also recognize that figures like the Virgin Mary have a special role within the Church, I don't know if that really balances the scales.
True, but also I guess what do you compare it to. Many major religions take an even stronger stance and when it is not religion is tradition. Nothing in Sinto says that women are inferior (AFAIK) but there is a tradition build around it. Overall, in most modern Christian countries women have the full set of rights.
RE the Catholic Chruch, I do not think there is anything that is dogmatic about not allow female priests and it could become a reality some day. I can certainly assure that nunneries have leaders, influence and "power" no lesser than monasteries or male orders.