What is the Spanish term for the religious thanksgiving Mass sometimes held for a quinceañera?

The Spanish term for the religious thanksgiving Mass sometimes held for a quinceañera is “misa de acción de gracias.”

The phrase means “Mass of thanksgiving.” In Catholic families, it can describe a church service in which the young person and family give thanks and receive blessings. The service may take place before the reception, although scheduling and wording differ by parish and community.

A misa de acción de gracias is not the same as a wedding Mass, baptism, or confirmation. The quinceañera is a cultural and family milestone rather than a sacrament of the Catholic Church. Some celebrations include a Mass, some use another religious service, and many are entirely secular.

Church practices are not identical everywhere. A parish may have rules about preparation, readings, clothing, music, and participation. The reception’s dances and court are separate from the liturgy. Thus, the term identifies a possible religious component, not a compulsory part of every quinceañera.