Kurunagar is just one Kms from the Jaffna town centre along the coast. The Kurunagar church was built in 1881.
On 13.11.1993, people were gathered for prayers when Sri Lankan Air Force bombers dropped two bombs on the church. Ten people were killed and more 25 were injured. The church was badly damaged.
This bombing was condemned by the world leaders. The pillars supporting the main hall were broken to smithereens and they are kept even today near the altar. A memorial was also built for those killed in the bombing near the entrance to the church.
Available names of victims (name, occupation, age)
1. Mery Jeyaseeli Thasiyas, House wife, 50
2. Anton Anchsala, House wife, 40
3. Kuroos Akkines Pensioner, 60
4. JohnLooththu Seviyar, Worker, 45
5. Aarokianathar Silvan Sajeevan, Student, 18
6. Anton Puspaleela, House wife, 41
7. Mery Sinthuya Mathuranayakam, Infant, 2 ½
8. Singarasa Jujin Kamalitta, Student, 15
9. Kabirial Anton, Fisherman, 48
10. Akkines Kurusupillai, -, 80
11. Mery Vennila Antonipillai, Teacher, 27
12. Singarayar Jani Kanoji, Student, 08