What is the formal Catholic thanksgiving service sometimes held for a quinceañera called?

The formal Catholic thanksgiving service sometimes held for a quinceañera is called a Misa de acción de gracias.

The Spanish phrase translates as “Mass of thanksgiving.” In families that include a religious ceremony, the quinceañera and her relatives attend a church service to give thanks and to receive prayers or a blessing. The service may take place before the reception, although arrangements vary by parish and family.

A quinceañera Mass is not identical to a wedding or a sacrament that changes the celebrant’s legal status. It is a thanksgiving observance associated with the birthday milestone. Catholic practice and parish requirements can differ, and some families celebrate a quinceañera without a Mass.

The reception usually contains the more recognizable party customs, such as formal dances, speeches, and a court of honor. Keeping the Mass and the reception distinct helps explain why the religious portion is important to some families but is not universal across all quinceañeras.