Well, You have the right person answering You.

No lineage is the best or oldest, their is just no such thing.
Some are more traditional and others more liberal.

I'd say though that the inner order of some magical orders is your best bet. AO for example.

SRIA is really Golden Dawn and a weak attempt at restoring Plumbers work.
It's snobby and not well maintained.

You can apply though if Sandra or Dave will to talk to You but I doubt it.

[link to sria.org (secure)]

Frater

PS I understand the need, the quest, VERY noble but You'd do better to look directly into The Golden Dawn or The OTO. The OTO probably being a lot more accepting of new members.

LVX