Cosa Nostra Initiation Ceremony

Cosa Nostra is an extremely private organization, although it has been made clear of their sacred ceremonies containing many Catholic rituals. When becoming a member of Cosa Nostra, which is referred to as Mafiosi, you will go through a very important initiation ceremony. During this ritualistic ceremony a picture of the Virgin Mary will be burnt to ashes, she is considered the patron saint of Cosa Nostra, and Mafiosi’s drops of blood will fall upon the ashes. This initiation ceremony is often referred to as the Mafiosi’s second baptism. Representing admission and adoption into the Cosa Nostra family commonly referred to as “Cosca”. Cosa Nostra preaches the importance of belonging, trust, and having a set of rules. This has direct alignment

Mafiosi take this creed to the next level, murdering those whom do not follow it exactly. Mafiosi are discouraged from consuming alcohol and drugs because one becomes inebriated and is more likely to reveal secret information while in that state. Mafiosi even enforce Omerta to the general public, intimidating civilians to buy their protections. Both Cosa Nostra and the Catholic Church have a hierarchy formed. For Cosa Nostra the main Boss makes all major decisions and consults the underboss for assistance. Capos are in charge of the soldiers and act as lieutenants. Each Capo has a group made up of several Coscas (10- 100+). This hierarchy structure mirrors the Catholics with the Pope at the head making major decisions and consulting with Cardinals. Pope distinguishes other Christian bodies linking the members and the Pope. Under the Pope are bishops; they represent the Church (Pope is Bishop of Rome), followed by priests, and then the clergy of Catholics. The connections between both hierarchies display the same format of respect to their

Whereas in the Catholic Church, God is the father figure, worshipping God as the Father and Holy Trinity. Both show adoration to the Father: Cosa Nostra will show respect through kissing the hand of the Godfather when meeting him, Catholics kiss the ring hand of the Pope when meeting him which symbolizes worshipping the one true God. Cosa Nostra is a business of crime and involves the church with affairs often to keep the status quo of their territories. It is important to remember there are many aspects of Cosa Nostra besides drug dealing and extortion. Scholars have referred to the group as private protection firms who pledge trust and security in fragile economy situation with few other resources to take advantage of. In exchange, for later favors or money, Mafiosi with use their intimidation against competing companies or enemies. Enabling them to have the abilities for more local control over communities. Cosa Nostra can keep general peace throughout the community simply by participating, supporting, and involving the Catholic Church. Many civilians are willing to protect Mafioso members from authorities because they benefit from their