Happy to report that since updating to Manchester, I can now use Rapture Session without frustration. Prior to that, it took so long to load the various patches that I just gave up and figured I wouldn't ever use it again. The original Rapture was fine, and one of my fave instruments from the "old" Cakewalk collection. But it appears the issue has been resolved for Rapture Session (and, presumably Rapture Pro) so I might consider upgrading it if it is truly more useable now.
Good job, Bakers, for the continued under-the-hood improvements.