"Among several Spanish speaking countries and among many 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.  This may be done within Mass by use of the rites of blessing... or by a blessing outside Mass."  (Order for the Blessing on the Fifteenth Birthday)



VERY IMPORTANT
*The Quinceañera / Sweet Sixteen and her parents (at least one parent or legal guardian) must contact the rectory at least 6 months before the anticipated day and request an interview with one of the parish priests.  We may not be able to accommodate your date of request if you contact us after.
 
Requirements for the young lady…
- She must be a practicing Catholic – i.e., attends Mass every Sunday
- Must provide proof of Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation
- Must be interviewed by one of the parish priests well before the ceremony
 
Dates & Times for Quinceanera / Sweet Sixteen ceremonies
1. Special Masses / Ceremonies are scheduled on most Saturdays throughout the year at 12 PM or 4 PM.   The requested donation is $ 250 and does not include decorations, flowers, singers, or musicians.  If you request a mass, be sure to select a lector for the first reading (must be a practicing Catholic), a petitioner, and two gift bearers.  If you request a ceremony, only a lector and petitioner are needed.
- OR -
 
2. A Quinceañera / sweet sixteen blessing can also be celebrated at our regularly scheduled Vigil Mass on most Saturdays at 6 PM.  This mass usually takes place in the rectory chapel.  The requested donation is $ 50 and does not include decorations, flowers, singers, or musicians.  The young lady and her court must arrive by 5:45 PM so that the mass can begin promptly by 6 PM.  This mass is open to the public and cannot be delayed.
 
The Interview
In order to have a successful interview, please be prepared to confirm the following information:
-Date and time of mass/ceremony
-Language preferred for ceremony (Spanish, English, and Bilingual)
-First & last names of Godparents
-First & last names of participants (lectors, petitioners, and gift bearers only)
-Number of chamberlains and maids
-Choices for musicians and music, e.g. Mariachis, parish musicians (secular music is not permitted)
-Music choice & floral bouquet at the time of consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary
-Language preferred for Prayer of Consecration
-Articles presented for blessing (e.g., shoes, crown)
-Date and time for confession
-Date and time of rehearsal
-Time requested for decoration (only real flowers are permitted)
-Rules for photographers / videographers
-Any other questions you may have…..