1311 Robinson Drive, Haines City, FL 33844, United States
QUINCEANERA PREPARATION PROGRAM
What IS Quinceanera?
Quinceanera means “a girl who is fifteen years old.” It began as a tradition in the Americas, particularly in Mexico, Central, and South America. It is also frequently celebrated by Hispanic Catholics in the dioceses of the United States of America.
Quinceanera is a traditional celebration of thanksgiving for a young girl’s life and her passage to womanhood. Her parents, relatives, and friends ask God to pour His blessings and protection upon her as she is formally presented to society for the first time. The celebration is not a sacrament such as Baptism or Confirmation.
The Quinceanera Mass is an Act of Thanksgiving for Life and Faith, crowned by God’s blessing. It is an opportunity for the young girl to consolidate her commitment to her faith.
Requirements for a Quinceanera Church Celebration
The parish community of St. Ann Catholic Church welcomes the religious ceremony as part of the 15th birthday celebration. It is time for the 15-year-old young lady to realize her adult responsibilities to her faith, family, and community.
In supporting the rich culture and tradition of the Hispanic population, St. Ann Catholic Church issues the following guidelines in planning for the so-called first formal presentation or debut of a young woman to society:
- The family concerned must be registered and active parishioners of St. Ann Catholic Church for at least the past six (6) months and residing within its parish boundaries, with active participation in any of the ministries of the Church.
- The family must provide copies of certificates of Baptism and First Communion of the debutante. If she has already been confirmed, submitting a copy of the corresponding certificate is also welcome. The certificates must come from parishes supported by the rites of the Roman Catholic Church.
- The intending celebrant must attend special Quinceanera classes to prepare for the ceremony culturally. These classes are offered three (3) to four (4) times a year. Please call the Office of Religious Education for the class schedule dates and times and the contact information of the Quinceanera coordinator.
- Reserve the date and time for the celebration upon completion of all requirements. A non-refundable fee of $ 100 is required to schedule a date and time on the Parish calendar. Quinceanera church celebrations are scheduled on dates and times that are subject to availability.
- Coordinate with the Office of Religious Education to arrange for the Entourage, the readings, and other details for the event.
- Rehearsal is mandatory.
Coverage of the Quinceanera Class
The coverage of the Quinceanera class focuses on cultural traditions and issues that today’s young women face, such as peer pressure, drug use, sexual activity, and stewardship. Other suggested topics are: (a) The Sacrifice of the Mass; (b) my life as God’s precious child; (c) commitment to lead a Christian life; and (d) Social Graces and Etiquette.
Considerations for Church Decorations
Please remember to observe proper respect whenever one is in the Church. The Church is to be honored as a place of quiet reverence. It is a place of prayer.
The altar is sacred. No candles, flowers, or the like should ever be placed on it. Flowers are, however, permitted if placed at allowed places in the Church.
The use of balloons or other helium-filled devices is prohibited.
Runners are safety hazards and are not allowed.
A person(s) must be assigned to clean up and remove all decorations immediately after the ceremony.
The Quinceanera Church Ceremony
Lectors must be selected from members of the family and friends.
Only appropriate liturgy music is acceptable. Separate arrangements and fee payment must be made directly with your musician.
As the Church is a sacred place, the celebrant and her companions and guests are expected to dress modestly and respectably.
The Quinceanera party is also requested to respect and comply with all the Office of Religious Education requirements in particular and those of the Church in general.