What religious service may be held for a quinceañera before the party?

The religious service that may be held for a quinceañera before the party is a Misa de acción de gracias, or thanksgiving Mass. It is a Catholic service in which the family gives thanks and asks for blessings for the celebrant’s future.

The Mass is not universal. Some families include it because of Catholic identity or local tradition, while others hold only a civil or family celebration. The ceremony can include special readings, prayers, music, and the presentation of symbolic objects, depending on parish practice.

The phrase literally means “Mass of thanksgiving.” It should not be confused with a wedding Mass or with Misa de gallo, the Spanish name commonly used for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day midnight Mass. Quinceañera programs also vary by country, so a church service may occur before, after, or separately from the reception.