What does the Spanish phrase “misa de acción de gracias” mean in quinceañera traditions?

In quinceañera traditions, “misa de acción de gracias” means “Thanksgiving Mass.”

The phrase describes a Catholic service of thanksgiving that may be held for the quinceañera before the reception. During the service, the family may express gratitude and ask for blessings for the young woman’s future.

The Spanish wording is more specific than simply saying “church ceremony.” Misa means Mass, acción means action, and gracias means thanks, producing the established expression “Mass of thanksgiving.”

Not every quinceañera includes this service. Religious participation varies according to the family’s beliefs, the country or community, and the format of the celebration. The phrase should not be confused with the U.S. national holiday called Thanksgiving.