In a traditional quinceañera, what Catholic church service gives thanks for the honoree’s fifteenth birthday?

A traditional quinceañera may include a Misa de acción de gracias, or thanksgiving Mass, for the honoree’s fifteenth birthday.

The service is a Catholic element of many quinceañeras, especially in communities where the celebration has strong religious roots. The honoree may enter the church with parents and members of the court, listen to readings, and receive a blessing or special prayer.

A quinceañera is not itself a sacrament. The thanksgiving Mass is therefore different from baptism, confirmation, or first communion. Some families hold the religious ceremony before the reception, while others celebrate with a civil or secular ceremony instead.

The Spanish name literally refers to a Mass of thanksgiving. Regional customs vary widely, so not every modern quinceañera includes a church service.