"Pope's View of Women"/Women's equality is elephant in living room

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/16/opinion/popes-view-of-women.html?_r=0
Bridget Mary's Response:
I agree with Ms. Janet Gallagher's view in the New York Times. I, too, am a big fan of Pope Francis. There is so much to admire. He lives the preferential option for the poor in his service of the destitute and poor, and he critiques unjust policies that contribute to global inequality. He reflects the compassion of Christ to the marginalized. 
But, I am troubled by his failure to recognize women as equals in decision making and ministry and his continued support of the ban on women's ordination. Women's equality is the elephant in the church's living room.  Pope Francis should follow Jesus' example of Gospel equality and affirm the early church tradition in which women presided at Eucharist in the homes. 
Roman Catholic Women Priests are leading the way toward a more just, inclusive church that honors the gifts of the baptized as equal members and the gifts of women to lead sacramental ministry as deacons, priests and bishops. Bridget Mary Meehan, ARCWP, www.arcwp.org