Here are five things worth paying attention to this week. I recommend selecting one or two and jumping in over the next week.

1. There are a lot of books about intimacy in relationships, but few are as important as Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel, a psychotherapist.

2. As more and more white people wrestle with the reality of their own inherent bias, spaces are being created for them to dialogue about what they’re learning.

3. It is difficult to imagine now, but not long ago, the office of the U.S. presidency looked markedly different.

4. This article is a good reminder that the religious right aren’t the only group concerned with politics.

5. If you’re looking for more thought-provoking reads about current events and Christianity, check out the Salt Collective. Clearly I think my article is a good read, but you’ll find some other great pieces there as well.

Ben Tapper has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Manchester University, a master’s degree in public affairs from Indiana University and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary. He serves as the faith formation coordinator for First Mennonite Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, and is actively involved in community engagement.