Hispanics have incorporated in our Eucharist some rites or blessings that reflect some
stages in the life of people that are very important for the whole community like the presentation
of children and quinceañera. 1 I was told that quinceañeras would probably wear a tiara or crown
that represents the purity of body and soul. It also signifies the triumph of her will and her faith
over evil, and a cross or medal which is the reminder of her evangelization and of her first
encounter with Christ our Lord, reminding her of the fidelity to Christ she must keep until death.
She would have a Bible, prayer book and rosary, all of these elements supporting her spirit and
life; a ring which will always remind her of her commitment, not only to Christ, but also to the
ecclesial community; flowers represent purity and her consecration to the Blessed mother,
sometimes she also wear a scepter. I have been told that it seems to be a tradition that the parents of quinceañeras at some parishes usually buy a doll. They bring it to Mass to ask the priest to bless it. After the Mass, the dance of the party starts at the moment the father of the quinceañera say to her in front of the guests, “Esta es tu última muñeca, ya no eres una niña, ya eres mujer.” (This is your last doll, you are not a girl any more, you are a woman now), and he gives the quinceañera her last doll. I found it interesting that the young girls would mainly use English for communication. However, they enjoy listening to Mexican music, buying Mexican candy, and stopping at Mexican stores to try on the dresses for this typical Mexican celebration.

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For more information, please contact the parish office at 402-352-3540.