THE QUINCEAÑERA

Dana Ajeleth Estrada Razo.

Dana, Pastor Gerardo and Miriam's daughter, celebrated her fifteenth birthday March 19.  She was honored with a huge fiesta called a Quinceanera.  The family's many friends and family members sponsored the Quinceanera so that Dana would have an event she will always remember.

Dana's parents laid hands on her in a prayer of dedication to the Lord.

Brother Fernando Colorado, District Supervisor of the Church of God in Mexico spoke to all of us about the importance of serving God.  Dana's theme for the Quinceanera was grapes on the vine, so Brother Colorado used the theme to emphasize our need as branches to remain connected to the vine in order to produce real fruit.  He spoke of Dana's transition from childhood into adulthood and her new responsibilities.  As part of the ceremony, Dana was presented with gifts representing her new role in life.  Lloyd and I gave her a new Bible with her name engraved on the cover.

Dana was presented to us as a senorita, a young woman.

The Quinceanera is very popular in Mexico and many other countries.  Today's celebrations embrace religious customs, and the virtues of family and social responsibility. The Quinceanera tradition celebrates the Quinceanera, the young girl, and recognizes her journey from childhood to maturity. The customs highlight God, family, friends, music and food.

The Quinceanera celebration traditionally begins with a religious ceremony. A Reception is held in the home or a banquet hall. The festivities include food and music, and in most, a choreographed program performed by the Quinceanera and her Court.

Dana has many friends.  She chose ten to stand with her, including her brother Nahum and her sister Esly.

It is traditional for the Quinceanera to choose special friends to participate in what is called the Court of Honor. Usually, these young people are her closest friends, her brothers, sisters, cousins - the special people in her life with whom she wants to share the spotlight.   Dana had ten in her court, five boys and five girls.  They all wore purple to match her theme.

There are many traditions throughout the Quinceanera celebration. One of the most popular is the Changing of the Shoes. Pastor Gerardo formally changed Dana's flat shoes to high heels. This is a beautiful symbol of the Quinceañera's transformation from a little girl to a young lady.

Pastor Gerardo and his family are proud of Dana.

Dana wore a small tiara for the ceremony, but later she donned a dramatic purple sombrero.  This Spanish accent further emphasized the many years of traditions behind the Quinceanera and it's meanings to everyone.  Dana is now a señorita, a young woman.  She will begin classes at a prep school in Rio Bravo next fall and eventually hopes to become a doctor.  Dana needs our prayers as she begins this new phase of her life.