St. Anthony’s Story Tree Resonates Hope at Symphony Hall

November 29, 2023

The next time you pass by Davies Symphony Hall on Van Ness Avenue, look up! This year, we were given the opportunity to decorate a Christmas tree, along with a chorus of other non-profit organizations, which dazzle in the orchestra-level window. You will note that St. Anthony’s “Story Tree” is covered in white, silver, and blue garland. There are hundreds of St. Anthony’s Season of Hope ceramic ornaments with quotes by St. Francis that read, “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” Its principal players, however, are ornaments that feature the heartwarming stories of Danny, Juan, Lauren, and Chris, all valued members of the St. Anthony’s community. 

Our sponsor, arts patron, and long-time St. Anthony’s supporter, Mrs. Barbara Wolfe, generously underwrote the Story Tree. This was an opportunity to showcase to the wider community some of our guests’ inspiring success stories and the power of turning hope into action. More than 65,000 patrons and countless other passers-by will witness its crescendo at 18 feet, including St. Anthony’s guests from Father Alfred Center and the Oasis Inn, who will also be attending some of the family holiday concerts.

St. Anthony’s Story Tree will be on display throughout December. If you are attending any of the 28 holiday concerts scheduled for the month, or driving down Van Ness Avenue, you can be sure that our guests’ stories of hope, stability, and renewal will shine for all to see.

Proceeds go to SF Symphony’s Deck the Hall Community Day on Monday, December 4. It is an event that has occurred annually for over 40 years, where more than 2,000 schoolchildren converge at Davies Hall for a day of free holiday performances. SF Symphony also provides community education programs to youth throughout the year. You can learn more at the following link: Deck the Hall | 2023 Holiday Concerts at San Francisco Symphony (sfsymphony.org)