Catholicism is the religion most closely associated with the traditional quinceañera ceremony.
Many traditional celebrations include a Catholic Mass called a misa de acción de gracias, or thanksgiving Mass. During the service, the young woman may receive a blessing and participate in a formal presentation before family and the congregation.
Catholic association reflects the large Catholic population in much of Latin America, where the custom developed and spread. It does not mean every quinceañera is Catholic or includes a Mass. Secular celebrations, Protestant observances, and other family adaptations are common.
The religious service is also distinct from the reception. The reception may feature food, music, dancing, speeches, and symbolic customs, while the Mass is a separate worship service when the family chooses to include it.