What Spanish term can refer to the ceremonial church service associated with a quinceañera?

The Spanish term that can refer to the ceremonial church service associated with a quinceañera is misa de acción de gracias.

Misa de acción de gracias translates as “Mass of thanksgiving.” In Catholic quinceañera traditions, it is a church service giving thanks for the celebrant’s life and asking for guidance as she enters a new stage. The service may take place before the reception, although schedules and practices differ.

The Mass is not required for every quinceañera. Many celebrations are secular, and some families hold a religious service in a different form or omit it entirely. Catholic parishes may also set their own preparation requirements.

The phrase should not be confused with a wedding Mass or baptism. A quinceañera service is associated with a fifteenth-birthday milestone, not marriage or initiation into Christianity.