What is the traditional religious service in a Catholic quinceañera called?

The traditional Catholic religious service in a quinceañera is called a misa de acción de gracias.

This Spanish phrase means “Thanksgiving Mass” or “Mass of thanksgiving.” It is a Catholic service in which the young woman gives thanks for her life and asks for God’s guidance as she enters a new stage. The service may take place before the reception and is often attended by relatives, friends, and members of the celebration’s court.

The Mass is not mandatory for every quinceañera. Families may hold a religious service, a secular ceremony, or no formal ceremony at all, depending on their beliefs and circumstances. The practice is particularly associated with Catholic communities in Mexico, the United States, and other parts of Latin America.

A quinceañera Mass should not be confused with a wedding Mass. The honoree is celebrating a birthday and cultural milestone, not entering marriage.