Elmslie had just ended a lengthy partnership with William Gray Purcell and had opened an independent practice in Chicago.

The committee was fond of Elmslie's recent Capitol Building and Loan Association in Topeka, Kansas, and envisioned a similar structure.

Construction finished in 1930 with the completion of the sanctuary and Education Building, both structures a blend of Gothic and Prairie styles.

Prairie elements include a horizontal emphasis, wood ornamentation, earth tones, and use of natural materials.

Emil Zettler was commissioned to carve statues and provide decorative elements.