What is the Spanish name for the religious service often held before a quinceañera reception?

The religious service often held before a quinceañera reception is called a misa de acción de gracias.

The Spanish phrase means “Mass of thanksgiving.” In Catholic families, the service gives the honoree and relatives an opportunity to express gratitude and seek a blessing for the next stage of life. It is commonly held in a church before the reception, although practices differ widely.

The service is not required for every quinceañera. Some families celebrate only with a secular party, while others hold a prayer service or another religious observance. The ceremony’s content can therefore depend on denomination, country, parish rules, and family preference.

A misa de acción de gracias is also distinct from the reception itself. The reception may include the entrance, formal dances, symbolic rituals, dinner, music, and speeches. English-language descriptions sometimes call the church service a quinceañera Mass, but the Spanish name identifies its thanksgiving purpose.