BURLINGTON, N.C. - After sitting vacant for two-and-a-half years, a Burlington church has moved into the space formerly occupied by a Gold's Gym at Burlington Square Mall.

Trailhead Church purchased the 12,000 square foot space, moved in two weeks ago and now holds regular church services.

Joshua Gresham, Pastor at Trailhead Church, says the mall is a perfect location for his church.

"We always said we wanted to own a mall to really reach out to the kingdom of God." Gresham said.

Gresham says the church relocated from Huntington, W.Va. They had been holding services at a Ramada Inn and decided the space at the mall was too good to pass up.

"Obviously being in a mall we're able to reach out more so than most. We're right here at the heart of shopping, especially during the Christmas season." Gresham said.

Church member Hilary Rose says it's unusual to have a church inside a mall, but she she says the response has been positive.

"We had a lot of interest when we were painting and laying carpet. The mall walkers were saying 'what is this?' They were extremely interested." Rose said.

Rose believes their location will help attract new worshipers.