LongHairGal I'm not sure what you have been reading but as a woman in a mainstream religion that has not been my experience. I am on the PCC of my local church which is a pretty even split of men to women .
I do the readings and prayers once a month at my preferred church service - Evensong .
I was on my own for a couple of years when l was widowed and that status made no difference to what l was " allowed " to do .
I am curious are you American ?
Jan