Quinceañera

Among several Spanish speaking countries and Hispanics in the United States, there is the custom of celebrating the passage from childhood to adolescence with a ritual that expresses thanksgiving to God for the gift of life and that asks for a blessing from God for the years ahead.”

P 12 Order of Blessing on the Fifteenth Birthday

It is not imperative that this special religious blessing and thanksgiving be received by every 15-year-old girl. However, everyone with the right dispositions and intention may request through the priest or deacon a blessing for various needs and anniversary celebrations (inc. birthday, marriage, etc).

Our Lady of Grace’s policy for Quinceañera is:

  • Quinceañera candidate and her family are practicing Catholics (Sunday and Holy Day participation at Mass and Stewardship).
  • Candidate is of good reputation.
  • Candidate has received the sacraments of Baptism, Communion and Confirmation.
  • Candidate is currently attending religious education and has done so for the prior two years at the parish.

Quinceañera blessing takes place at Sunday Vigil Mass or Sunday Mass:

  • The Quinceañera will be presented to the parish community at the beginning of Mass.
  • The Quinceañera will bring up the gifts with parents.
  • The Quinceañera will pray aloud the prayer of thanksgiving to God, which is found in the Order of Blessing. Parents and godparents may stand with the Quinceañera.
  • Flowers to the Blessed Virgin Mary may be presented before the final blessing.
  • The Quinceañera may be presented with already blessed religious articles (Bible, rosary, religious medal and necklace, prayer-book, etc).
  • It is expected that the Quinceañera receive Holy Communion at this Mass. Sacrament of Confession/Reconciliation may be necessary beforehand. Parents, godparents and sponsors who are able to receive Holy Communion are encouraged to do so. If there is a need of receiving the sacrament of Confession, that should be done at an earlier time.
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