Shriving pews have been traditionally used by people to confess their sins and obtain absolution from a priest. Today, the term is rarely used, but there are several synonyms that are commonly used to describe this activity. The most common synonym is the "confessional booth," which is a small partitioned room where a priest sits and listens to confessions. Another synonym is the "penitential box," which is similar to the confessional booth but is often made of wood and has a small door. Finally, the "reconciliation room" is also a synonym used by some churches to describe the space where confessions take place. Whatever the name, the purpose of these places remains the same, to offer penitents an opportunity to confess and seek forgiveness.