This weekend, Pan de Vida hosted another celebration, a Quinceañera for Elizabeth and Violeta who both turned 15 this spring. The ceremony embraces religious traditions, the virtues of family and social responsibility. The custom is a celebration of the young girl (la Quinceañera), and a recognition of her journey from childhood to maturity. The celebration highlights God, family, friends, music, food, and dance.
Different cultures and faiths observe the ceremony in different ways. Since we are a Christian community, the service here was a time of worship. The girls are dressed in beautiful gowns much like the prom dresses worn by graduates. During the service, they are then presented with gifts from friends and family, referred to as padrinos, to commemorate the celebration. The girls are first presented with a Bible as a resource to keep the word of God in her life. Then a a prayer pillow is given for them to use when they speak to God. Also a ring is given, which traditionally represents the never ending circle, the symbol of eternal life. Finally a photo album.
At the beginning of the service, the girls are escorted down the isle to a special song they have selected. As they come, they do an elegant dance entering the platform to which the service is held. Once the service is complete, they exit as they entered and the celebration with family and friends begin. There is a huge meal, cake and lots of fellowship. With over 100 children and visiting family and friends, there were about 200 people.
Ira and I sat a table with the middle age girls. We had so much fun with them with the presence of the spirit bringing giggles and laughter. There was so much energy in the place. We were also blessed with the fellowship of our brothers and sisters in Missions from Children of Hope and Orphanos coming for the weekend to share in the celebration.
The Quinceañera is much like that of a Baptism, demonstrating an outward expression of an internal commitment. One of the girls, Elizabeth, is the daughter of missionaries here and has legitimate family, but Violeta doesn't. It was so touching for her to be so gracious and thankful to feel so special. It was truly a family celebration, the family of God.
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