Sacramentals
Catholic sacramentals are sacred signs that resemble the sacraments or are used when indicating a sacrament.
Sacramentals include actions such as the Sign of the Cross, fasting, genuflections and novenas, blessings and even Quinceañeras and objects such as medals, rosaries, statues and holy water.
Novenas
A novena is a series of prayers that are said for nine straight days, usually as a prayer of petition but sometimes as a prayer of thanksgiving.
In April, usually, there is a novena prayed for the Divine Mercy which falls on the Sunday following Easter. This is directed by the Divine Mercy Ministry.
In December, the Guadalupanos Family Society holds a novena leading up to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass & Celebration on December 12 of every year.
Quinceañeras
This practice has history with the Mexican-American culture and the Jewish custom of presenting the young lady in the Temple.
Quinceañera blessing dates are set in consultation with the pastor. The young lady and her family must meet with the pastor and/or coordinator as specified by the pastor.
Requirements for Quinceañera:
Must have a history of attendance at Religious Education for the past two years.
Also, must attend classes given by the coordinator to be properly instructed in the cultural and religious traditions surrounding a Quinceañera celebration.
The liturgical celebration should be planned with the pastor and the coordinator at least 6-8 weeks prior to the Quinceañera. This preparation is important because this celebration is sacred.
Coordinator fees are the responsibility of the Quinceañera debutante.
