QUINCEAÑERAS
The following is taken from the guidelines and information given by the Diocese of Las Cruces:
Although some liken the modern-day festivities to the coming-out parties of debutantes, the celebration is not. The religious ceremony of a Quinceañera recognizes a young lady’s rite of passage into womanhood through a renewal of her commitment to God.
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The religious celebration has its purpose:
- to give thanks to God for life itself;
- to offer the young lady the opportunity to express her commitment to Jesus Christ and to the Christian community;
- to honor the young lady on her fifteenth birthday;
- to honor the young lady’s parents who through God’s help brought her into the world.
Requirements:
- A Quinceañera is permitted only if the family of the young lady is practicing the Catholic faith and registered in the parish where the Quinceañera will take place (if this is not the case, her pastor’s permission is needed).
- The young lady should be active in the youth program in her parish (or in religious education if she hasn’t yet received Confirmation). The Assumption Youth Group meets on Sundays from 6:30 - 8:30 PM in the parish hall. Contact Mark Salas for more information: 575-244-4118.
- Immediate preparation should include a day of recollection with an opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
- She should attend a course of special instruction approved by the Youth Ministry of the Diocese of Las Cruces.
Please call the office to set up a date for a Quinceañera at least three months ahead.