In a Catholic quinceañera, a Mass may take place before the party.
This religious service is often called a Misa de quince años, or Mass of the fifteenth year. During it, the honoree may give thanks, renew baptismal promises, receive a blessing, and be encouraged to continue in the Catholic faith. The exact order and content depend on the parish and local custom.
The Mass is not a universal requirement. Quinceañeras are celebrated by people from different religious backgrounds, and many families choose a secular ceremony instead. Even within Catholic communities, some parishes use a full Mass while others offer a shorter prayer service or blessing.
A church service and the reception are separate parts of the occasion. The reception may include a formal entrance, a symbolic presentation, a choreographed dance, dinner, and cake. These party customs should not be confused with Catholic sacraments: a quinceañera is a cultural and religious tradition, not one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church.