Children’s Celebrations
Hispanics see their children as gifts from God, and hence, express through rites and customs, their willingness to dedicate them to His service from infancy.
Among many Hispanics, there is a deep devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, the “Patroness of the Americas.” This devotion is manifested in prominent displays of Our Lady’s image on baptismal gowns, Bibles, prayer cards and rosaries.
El Ángel de la Guarda (Guardian Angel) is also lovingly conspicuous on prayer books and Bibles. A framed photo of the Guardian Angel is often given as a gift to hang over the child’s bed.
Quince Años (the Fifteenth Birthday)
The Quince Años is a Hispanic tradition of celebrating a young girl’s coming of age – her 15th birthday. It celebrates the young girl (la Quinceañera), and recognizes her journey from childhood to maturity. In the Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central and South American traditions, the custom can be referred to as Quince (XV) Años, Quinces, Quinceañera, Quinceañero or Fiesta Rosa. It is traditionally celebrated with a church ceremony followed by an oftentimes elaborate reception with music and dancing. For more detail on this beautiful custom, see our webpage, Quince Tradition.