New Haven Christian Church adapts Quinceanera celebration.
Although the Quinceanera has been most often associated with the Roman Catholic Church, New Haven Church has adapted the Hispanic rite of passage for girls to reflect an emphasis on spiritual disciplines.
New Haven Church called its Quinceanera celebration "El Dia de la Senorita," which means "The Day of the Young Lady."
The root of the term "Quinceanera" means 15, the age girls are considered to become young women. In the Hispanic culture, the Quinceanera is a common coming-of-age ceremony dating back to the Mayans and Toltec Indians.
Pastor Arnold led New Haven Christian Church to adapt the celebration for the first time this year.
"The cost of a Quinceanera is typically the reason why more families do not have them,". To address that issue, New Haven Christian Church asked each young woman's family to pay only $100 and provide a dress. The sponsors and others provided everything else.
During the ceremony, each young woman received a ring, a necklace, a tiara, a rose and a Bible that there sponsors will give to her. Each gift was explained to be symbolic of the relationship to Jesus Christ.
Every young women participating are required to attend six weekly Bible studies on issues such as discipleship, sexual purity, beauty, self-esteem, decision-making and materialism.
The Quinceanera well be attended by the family members. It will be a beautiful ceremony that included some laughter and tears of joy."
It is customary for the quinceanera to receive the following traditional gifts for her ceremony, each of which have a special symbolic meaning:
Crown (symbolizing that the girl is a princess before God)
Ring & BRACELET (symbolizing of her coming-of-age and symbolizing the unending circle of life that she will stay pure till someday she will replace the quinceañera ring with another lifecycle marker, a wedding band.
EARRINGS (reminder to listen to Gods word)
CROSS, BIBLE (representing religious faith)
At the conclusion of the service, the quinceanera places her bouquet on the altar and the girl's family and friends pass out small commemorative favors to the guests in attendance. All then proceed to a banquet hall for a festive dinner and dance reception.
After a sumptuous feast, the music and dancing begins. The first dance is a waltz danced with the quinceanera and her father. Next, members of her Court are introduced and then the godparents have their first dance. The dance floor is then opened for all guests, with men taking turns dancing with the quinceanera.
|