In a traditional quinceañera ceremony, a Catholic Mass may precede the reception.
This service is commonly called a quinceañera Mass or Misa de acción de gracias, meaning a thanksgiving Mass. During it, the celebrant may give thanks for her life and ask for guidance as she enters a new stage. Families may also present flowers, a Bible, or other religious items, depending on local custom and parish practice.
A Mass is not required for every quinceañera. The celebration is practiced by families with different religious affiliations, and many hold a civil ceremony, a nonreligious blessing, or only a reception. Customs also differ across Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, the United States, and elsewhere.
Because the reception is often more visible in photographs and popular culture, people sometimes assume the party is the entire tradition. In many families, however, the religious service remains an important opening event.