Exclusive: ‘Hey, Mary!’ YA Graphic Novel Explores Queer Identity and Catholicism with Self-Acceptance Themes

In honor of National Coming Out Day 2024, The Mary Sue is excited to share an exclusive preview of *Hey, Mary!*, an anticipated LGBTQ graphic novel from Oni Press. The protagonist, Mark, grapples with the potential reactions of his parents regarding his sexuality.

However, Mark may not have to endure anguish for embracing his queerness. In *Hey, Mary!*, he seeks guidance from a local drag artist and his priest, receiving unexpected support from notable figures in Catholic history, including Joan of Arc, Michelangelo, Savonarola, and St. Sebastian.

“Faith transcends just the weekend rituals,” remarked writer Andrew Wheeler in a recent announcement. “Being raised within the Catholic Church means it permeates every day of life. My upbringing was steeped in Catholicism—my family, community, and education were deeply rooted in it. Discovering my own gay identity during my teenage years forced me to find ways to balance my connection to all these aspects of my life. Both my queerness and my faith define who I am.”

“Creating *Hey, Mary!* has been an integral part of my ongoing reconciliation process, allowing me to articulate this journey in a way that might resonate with others who have faced similar challenges,” Wheeler expressed further.

Visual artist Rye Hickman shared, “When I was around the same age as Mark, I attended a private Christian institution with a strict policy: any student found to be gay would be expelled. Back then, my friends were all enamored with manga, but I found myself drawn particularly to stories featuring gender transformation or strong subtext around same-sex attraction. Much like Mark and his contemplation of Saint Sebastian’s imagery, I kept my true feelings hidden deep down—I felt normal! Just like Mark.”

“Mark’s journey begins in a place of fear and denial, which is a common thread for many of us. Andrew infused light-heartedness and joy into Mark’s initial steps, even amidst the struggle of self-concealment. This essence of joy, wonder, and love is what ultimately prevails against fear,”Hickman continued.

Dive into an exclusive sneak peek of *Hey, Mary!* below.

Individuals in the LGBTQ community of faith often face challenges while reconciling their identities. Many share experiences akin to Mark’s struggle. Merging one’s sexual orientation and gender identity within a culture marked by homophobia and transphobia can be incredibly challenging and painful. For those in need, support and resources are readily available.

Since its inception in 1988, National Coming Out Day has taken place annually on October 11, honoring those who have publicly embraced their queer or trans identities, while also supporting individuals who are still on their journey or unable to claim their identities due to the fear of violence or retribution. The day draws its name from the concept of “coming out of the closet,”yet many within the LGBTQ community have shifted away from this terminology due to its implications of shame. Some prefer to conceptualize it as “inviting others in”to understand their identity, fostering trust rather than presenting an opportunity for others to reject or harm them.

Next spring, *Hey, Mary!* will enrich the expanding LGBTQ literary landscape by sharing authentic stories of queer youth, highlighting their journey of affirmation and joy. This graphic novel is set to be released on April 15, 2025, available at all major book retailers.

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