A Mass often accompanies a Catholic quinceañera before the reception.
This service is commonly called a quinceañera Mass or Misa de acción de gracias, meaning a Mass of thanksgiving. The celebrant may express gratitude for her life and ask for continued guidance as she enters a new stage. Family members and the court may participate in the procession or readings.
A Mass is not required for every quinceañera. Many celebrations are secular, and families from other Christian denominations or other faiths may use different religious services—or none at all. Even among Catholic families, local parish rules and customs can affect the format.
The religious service is separate from the party or banquet that follows. The reception may include the entrance, symbolic gifts, dances, food, and speeches. Treating the Mass and reception as distinct parts helps explain why a quinceañera can be both a religious observance and a large social celebration.