THE SACRED AND THE PROFANE

The premise of the story is set in 2043. The SETI array receives a transmission from space, a transmission that suggests the presence of intelligent life in the Andromeda galaxy. A few years later, the Vatican announces that it is converting most of its assets to fund a small fleet of spaceships. Their goal: to travel to the Andromeda galaxy, and proselytize to whatever aliens are responsible for sending the transmission. Carrying a mixed crew of 215 clergy, nuns, and laypeople, in 2047, the St. Catherine sets off on its fateful journey to the stars. The Sacred and the Profane first appeared as a five-part series in the black and white indie comic Star Reach in 1977 - 1978. Archie Goodwin later approached the creators by publishing a revised, colorized version of the series in Epic Illustrated. The new series was launched in the October 1983 issue and continued through the October 1984 issue. This 1987 Eclipse Books graphic novel compiles all the Epic Illustrated episodes, as well as a sketchbook section, commentary by the authors, and an introduction by Archie Goodwin. Dean Motter is an illustrator, designer and writer who has worked for many years in Canada (Toronto) and the United States (New York City and Atlanta). He is best known for his album cover designs, two of which won Juno Awards. He is also the creator and designer of Mister X, one of the most influential "new-wave" comics of the 1980s. Ken Steacy is a Canadian comics artist and writer best known for his work on the NOW Comics comic book series of Astro Boy and of the Comico comic series of Jonny Quest, as well as his graphic novel collaborations with Harlan Ellison (Night and the Enemy, 1987) and Dean Motter (The Sacred and the Profane, 1987). Steacy was a member of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets 386 Comox Squadron.. Out of Print. Condition: Book is Very Fine, Dust Jacket is Fine-minimal corner rubbing with tiny tear.