Bayside Woodland, based in evangelical Christianity, began as “The Gathering” in 2003, originally meeting in the homes of members. Under the leadership of founding pastor, John Withem, The Gathering grew and eventually entered into an agreement with the Woodland School District to rent Pioneer High School, where we meet today.
In 2006, The Gathering made a strategic choice to join the Bayside Family of Churches and changed our name to Bayside Church of Woodland. This partnership affiliated us with 10 Bayside Churches in the greater Sacramento region. Although the closeness of this affiliation has loosened over the years, the Bayside churches continue to partner from time to time in mission, giving, and other strategic endeavors.
The legacy of Bayside Woodland is directly connected to the vision and passion of founding pastor, John Withem. In February 2012, John was diagnosed with Stage 4 liver cancer; and after a courageous and well-fought battle, he went home to be with his Savior in November 2012.
In January of 2014 we welcomed our new lead pastor, Cory Johnson and his family to Bayside. Cory has a passion for both reaching the lost and making disciples of those who are in Christ. Under his leadership, Bayside Woodland is heading into a healthy and thriving new season of ministry. We’re excited to see what God has in store for us.