Marvel is removing a hidden reference to a work critical of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (f/k/a Mormons) from future print and digital editions of The Amazing Spider-Man #4, according to The Hollywood Reporter. 

“The art reference in Amazing Spider-Man #4 was included without awareness by Marvel of its meaning," Marvel told THR in a statement. "As a policy, Marvel does not permit hidden controversial messages in its artwork. The reference will be removed from all subsequent printings, digital versions and trade paperbacks.”

In a page outlining Spider-Man’s new celebrity lifestyle, a panel shows the iconic suit covered in endorsement patches. They are mostly parodies of well-known corporations, but one, “CES Letter” refers to a book written by a former member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that criticizes church practices. The page was drawn by Ryan Ottley. The digital release has already been revised, and all reprintings and collected editions will feature revised artwork. A reprint of the issue is due for release on September 19.

THR also received a statement from Ottley. “I’ve spoken with Marvel about my recent artwork, and I have no animosity toward members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” he said. “...The reference was in regards to a subject I am interested in and a personal decision I made in my life. It has nothing to do with the character, the story or Marvel.”

This isn't the first time a controverisal message hidden in one of its comics led Marvel to take action. Last year, Marvel pulled X-Men: Gold #1 from digital circulation and fired the artist, Ardian Syaf, for including Indonesian religious and political references into the background of the comic (see “Marvel Cashiers 'X-Men Gold' Artist”).