Four months ago in Texas, Gov. George W. Bush signed a proclamation declaring June 10 to be Jesus Day, and urging all Texans to ''follow Christ's example by performing good works in their communities and neighborhoods.''

The proclamation received little attention, except for some gratitude from a Christian group that had asked many governors to issue proclamations supporting its annual day of charity, prayer and parades in Jesus' name.

Now what seemed purely ceremonial has turned into a controversy for Governor Bush. As word of Texas' Jesus Day has spread, the Republican presidential nominee has come under criticism for insensitivity to people of non-Christian faiths and a disregard for the First Amendment.

''The assumption is that Christianity is the norm for America,'' said Phil Baum, executive director of the American Jewish Congress, ''and that Jews and other minorities are here essentially as guests at the sufferance of our hosts, in a secondary position, which is an uncomfortable situation to be in.''